I used to think that pure motives, a clear conscience and a heart that was right before God were all that mattered. As long as my conscience was clear, it didn’t really matter what others thought. Philippians 2:15 shows the error in this thinking and demonstrates that our actions prove our integrity to others…defining what above reproach really means.
Philippians 2:15 NASB “so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world,”
So how do we prove that we are blameless and innocent when people accuse us of wrongdoing? In business, this usually comes down to a good reputation backed up by documentation and record keeping. Documented proof takes out the “He said,” “She said.”
Let’s look at a few business situations where documentation matters:
- A customer accuses you of advertising false prices. Are your fees and up-charges clearly and plainly disclosed? Are they fair?
- A former employee accuses you of wrongful termination. Does their personnel file show the real reason for termination? Does it have coach and council notes, review notes, disciplinary action, and a signed termination letter that clearly shows your desire to help the employee and opportunities given to resolve the performance issues?
- One of your products causes an unfortunate consumer injury. The prosecution puts you on the stand accusing you and the company of wrongdoing. Can you demonstrate your sincere commitment to the safety of others (QC program, customer complaints process, warnings in the user manual, etc.)?
- You made a verbal contract with a friend for web design work. Do you have a follow up email reiterating what you agreed to in order to prevent any misinterpretation if your memories fade?
- An IRS audit is questioning your accounting and tax payments. Are you able to prove your accounting practices, accurate filings and record keeping?
- An OSHA complaint is filed for negligence. Are you able to demonstrate to an OSHA inspector your compliance through your safety program, training, and adherence to it?
These accusations might seem like a hindrance or an annoyance at the moment, but God can use these situations according to His plan. So rather than resenting the accusations, we must lean into them knowing it’s either an opportunity to show God’s light or we can embrace it as an area in which our conduct can improve.
If your business does not document well, start today. If your business is good at documenting and a situation arises, make sure it is presented well by patiently and lovingly explaining. This will go much further than throwing a pile of evidence on the accuser, showing them all the ways they are naive and misinformed. This is an extremely practical way you can honor God in your business and live above reproach.
1 Peter 2:12 “Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world.”
Documentation is a good business practice (CYA), and every good lawyer or HR consultant will preach it. The primary motivation for documentation however should not be self-serving, but a way, as ambassadors of Christ, to operate above reproach. When we face accusations and mistrust may our conduct reveal the light of Christ.
Share any experiences (good or bad) of this in your organization in the comment section below.