03.05.12 The 10th Practice for Avoiding Corruption
10. Be Prudent
Amos 5:13 highlights the critical importance of prudence in a corrupt environment. That scripture reads (AMP): … he who is prudent and has insight will keep silent at such a [corrupt and evil] time, for it is an evil time [when peoplewill not listen to truth and will disregard those of good character].
As you may already know, a corrupt environment, boss, workmate or client can be so provoking to the extent that if you are not careful, you could either do or say things that you may later regret. More so, your actions, if not restrained or unchecked, may lead to your being wrongly tagged as ‘corrupt’. That is where prudence comes in.
Prudence refers to the ability to govern and discipline yourself when faced with a corruptive situation (and other challenges), so that you can act wisely and strategically. It is about thinking through possible options and their repercussions now; and in the medium and long term, before swinging into action. Being prudent involves studying the state of affairs, then making a calculated move, aimed at effectively and efficiently addressing the challenge in a way that will achieve the desired result without being counterproductive or making things worse; thereby minimising any risks ahead. It is practical wisdom.
That is exactly what the scripture we just read describes… Amidst bribery, the prudent keep silent for it is a corrupt and evil time!
So, when faced with a corruptive situation, ‘read the weather’ before you react. Ask yourself: What options are available? What will work? Weigh the long-term consequences of each possible action before implementing it.
Mind ‘who you talk to’; and, ‘how and where you say what’ to avoid being misunderstood as that could create problems for you in the long run; and make things worse. So, always control yourself.
Lastly, let me draw your attention to the warning in the scripture we just read. Notice what the last part of that verse says:.. it is an evil time [when peoplewill not listen to truth and will disregard those of good character]. What this means is that you have to gauge the best time to talk about the issue; since if mistimed, people may not be ready to listen, plus your communication could be thrown out the window. This is further cemented by Isaiah 30:15 where it says (NKJV): 15For thus says the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: “… In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.” This scripture teaches us that it is not everything that gets done by ‘saying’. So know the right time to say what. More so, be sure that what you say will solve issues, before you say anything!