Leading with integrity under scrutiny

Press the play button to watch the video above or press 'more' to read the transcript of the daily devotion below. Please read Acts 25:23-26:11 (use your own Bible or use the link above to access the in-App Bible).

In this passage, Paul finds himself on trial in a formal room full of figures of authority – kings, military commanders, governors all with influential voices. There must have been an intimidating atmosphere of expectation and judgement as Paul stood at the centre, a leader himself, but whose authority came from his conviction and faithfulness to God rather than position or title.

Paul does not act defensively, but responds with integrity, telling the truth about his own past and standing by his strong beliefs. He doesn’t try to impress his audience but leads with honesty, putting faith in God rather than valuing approval.

In my role as a Headteacher, I know how it feels to stand in front of audiences like Paul—in governor meetings, Ofsted inspections, or even a school hall full of parents, where my decisions are questioned and judged, and my leadership scrutinised.

As Paul shows, faithful leadership doesn’t guarantee agreement from everyone. It is helpful to remember that despite striving to teach and serve others with clarity and consistency, criticism may still come. The passage reminds me that my role as a school leader is not to please or impress others, nor defend myself, but to act at all times in the interest of the children in my care with integrity; faithfully following in the footsteps of Jesus, to carry out God’s work.

Despite being on trial, Paul uses his situation to speak the truth, still courageously teaching and shaping the thinking of others, despite being a prisoner. This reminds me, and anyone working in education, that our influence is not removed by limitations or constraints, but can merely be refined to overcome the challenges they present.

Like Paul, we should all remember that however difficult or uncomfortable the situation, there is always an opportunity to speak with wisdom, to model courage to others, and to grow in grace.

Let us pray: Lord, give me the wisdom and courage to speak with integrity, to trust You with outcomes that I cannot control, and help me to model faithfulness in every room that I enter. Amen