The Fervor and the Flag

Over the weekend the media in our country covered ad nauseam the owners and players in the NFL decision to “take a knee, stay in the locker room, or lock arms” in defiance of traditional respect for and allegiance to the National Anthem of the United States of America. I am sure each person feels justified in their decision.

This action drew much attention from social media sites which caused me to realize that most people cannot even agree on the issue at hand. I am not sure that even those taking the defiant position even know the true impetus of their actions.

As I have watched the behavior of people on all sides of the issues, I am reminded of two incredible leadership lessons we can learn.

1. Just because someone has the right to do something does not mean it is right to do something.

It is imperative that we stand on the side of righteousness and not just the side of privilege. The late Dr. Bob Jones, sr. is credited with saying, “Don’t sacrifice the permanent on the altar of the immediate.” Too often we make the mistake of missing the big things at the expense of the little. Let me encourage you to simply do the right thing.

2. Always make sure that your words are helpful.

While it may be true that many people agreed with the assertion the President made through his twitter account, it was inappropriate for him to say it. He is the President of the US and has a greater responsibility than most of us can possibly fathom. Too often I have been tempted to “act-in-kind” to something that is said around me, I have slowly learned the lesson that our words and response must be measured and “seasoned with grace” if I hope to ever have the opportunity to touch lives at a deeper level.

Paul wrote the Christians at Ephesus these words that I think we must all live by:

“Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say
be good and helpful, you your words will be an
encouragement to those who hear them.”
Ephesians 4:29 NLT