“Do the right thing.”
It sounds simple—like something our grandparents might have said—or a motto on a break room poster. But in leadership, doing the right thing is rarely that straightforward. Decisions are usually routine—until they’re not. When the stakes are high, the spotlight is bright, and everyone wants a piece of you, the “right thing” can feel hidden under layers of approval, applause, or fear.
Where do we learn what’s right?
We inherit our sense of right and wrong from all kinds of places—family upbringing, cultural values, company ethics policies, the examples of mentors and managers, and for many, the deep well of wisdom found in the Bible. In ministry, we talk about aligning with God’s will. In business, we talk about integrity and responsibility. Both remind us that real wisdom doesn’t bend with popularity; it stays rooted when pressure mounts.
Let’s talk about Clay.
Clay is a mid-level Vice President—ambitious, respected, ready for a new challenge. A big opportunity opened up within the company: perfect on paper, perfect according to his colleagues, and perfect in the eyes of his closest friends and even his wife. Except… it didn’t feel perfect to him. Every time Clay thought about stepping into the role, something inside whispered, “Not this.” It wasn’t fear or laziness—it was something deeper. Call it a gut check, a divine prompting, or wisdom stirring.
So Clay did what good leaders do—he sought counsel. Everyone said, “Go for it!” So he did what courageous leaders do—he paid attention to that quiet unrest instead.
In a boardroom full of top brass, with all eyes on him and the runway cleared for takeoff, Clay thanked everyone for their support—and turned the job down. A silence fell, awkward and weighty. Some admired him. Some questioned him. But Clay left the meeting lighter than he’d felt in weeks.
The next day, the CEO dropped by Clay’s office. Heart pounding, Clay braced for impact. Instead, the CEO thanked him. There was another candidate—young, untested, but brilliant. Clay’s “no” opened the door for a bold future move.
“That was a gutsy move. But the whole company can see the wisdom in what you did, Clay.”
Wisdom rarely shouts. It often feels inconvenient. It costs us comfort, approval, or quick wins. But the peace that follows right decisions is a leader’s true reward.
Leaders: listen for it. Test your motives. Seek wise counsel. And when wisdom and integrity whisper, trust them. Heroes don’t always wear capes—but they do sleep well at night.
Three Scriptures on God’s Wisdom
Proverbs 3:5–6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
Proverbs 4:7
“Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”
Reflection for today:
Where might wisdom be asking you to do the right thing, even if it costs you something?
