Beware When Your Competence Outpaces Your Character

"A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold" (Proverbs 22:1).

What happens in our lives when our success or notoriety moves beyond our character?

Most often, a fall from grace. Destructive downfall. Monumental backslide.

The inevitable devastation begins when you start to believe your own press clippings. When those around you feed your ego. Tell you how wonderful you are. How very important.

And then you begin to use your good name as a disguise, covering questionable decisions fueled by immoral and ambitious motives. And so, the fall from grace begins.

That's why you need to develop a Christ-like character early in your life. Strive to become a person who is the same at all times. In front of all people. In any situation.

A person of integrity is one whose life is integrated publicly and privately. And your words align with your deeds.

May your Godly character always outpace your competence.