A Faithful Manager

I've completed my reading of Romans (for now) and have moved on to First Corinthians. The first part of the book focuses on reconciling splits in the church. But, tucked into a discussion about the ministries of Paul and Apollos, there is a verse that hit me particularly hard... "Now, a person who is put in charge as a manager must be faithful." (I Corinthians 4:2). I knew right when I read the verse that there was something in it to help me in my current situation. Something "clicked."

I looked the verse up in a couple Bible commentaries, but they both stressed that the Corinthians were wrong in judging Paul; that was ultimately the work of God. I'm not working through a situation where my ministry is being judged by other believers. Instead, I'm in a position where my abilities as a manager are under constant scrutiny (I know this is not a unique situation, it is true of all managers). I saw the word "faithful" at the end of the verse, and recognized that it is the hinge pin that the rest of the verse revolves around. I looked up the meaning of the word "faithful" in this context. Faithful in this verse means "Firm in adherence to promises, oaths, contracts, treaties or other agreements."

As a manager my faithfulness (integrity) is tested every day. Usually, it is tested several times a day. Every time I implement a new procedure or ask that my managers and associates perform at a certain level their eyes turn first towards me: Am I following my own rules? Am I capable of living up to my own expectations? When I fall short, what is my response? Then, they look at each other: Are they all being held to the same standard? Is it consistently the same standard? Is anyone receiving special treatment? The last person they typically look at is themselves: Are they capable of living up to the standard? What is their reward? What is the consequence of failure? How long will they have to perform at the expected level?

I have to consider all of these questions each time I implement something new or hold someone accountable to an existing standard. As a man of integrity I have to ensure that I am holding everyone (including myself) to the same standard. Rewards for meeting/exceeding expectations must be timely and consistent. Consequences for failure to meet expectations must also be timely and consistent.

Every time I enforce or institute a standard I am effectively creating a contract with (or making a promise to) the affected associate(s). The contract states that I promise to hold myself and all other associates and managers with similar job responsibilities to a consistent standard. The contract also includes penalties for failure to meet the standard, and rewards for achievement.

Paul says a person "put in charge as a manager must be faithful." I must work to earn the trust of the people that work for me by being consistent, keeping my promises, and upholding my part of each contract into which I enter. I know that this can only be done through the strength that God gives me.

My prayer is that God helps me remain true to my promises. God, give me the strength to be consistent. Help me to earn the trust of my colleagues through exhibiting faithfulness. Let the example I set be a witness for you. God, I cannot do this without your help.