Do I need to be honest in my job

What kind of work are you in, John, and what sort of illegal things are you asked to do?

 

It's difficult, John. I know that. Sometimes a boss will simply ask a secretary to 'cover' for him in a crunch. This does not necessitate lying as much as an extra dose of diplomacy with those asking for him.

But sometimes there is something flat out illegal that the secretary is asked to do. Even at the risk of losing a job, it is best if the secretary says nicely, but straight out, "I can't do that. It's illegal and you are putting us both in jeopardy."

Always, I would suggest to those who are Christian to pray for wisdom first in how to respond, however.

 

Sometimes, Helen, some of the things they're asked to do are morally wrong; such as, "tell my wife I'm in a meeting"....

John, suffice to say, I've told every boss and everyone I've ever worked for (since I was saved) that I will not lie for them. I'm still employed.

I know that doesn't work for everyone, but I'd rather be unemployed with a good reputation (and thus able to file a wrongful termination grievance) than live with my conscience pecking at me every day.

Out of curiosity: why is this in the Pastoral Ministries section?

[ October 24, 2002, 02:42 PM: Message edited by: Don ]

 

You are to be like Jesus all the time. Not part of the time. If you do what God says is right ( what is convicted in your heart), trust that He will take care of you, He will. You have to let God be in control. Even if it seems scary.

Trusting is saying, "God I believe you are God. I know you are my creator, and You Father gave your Son for me. I will let you lead me, and I will follow you. Whatever is in your will for me, I will do. I know Father God, if You created the heavens and the earth and all thats in it encluding me, then You will, and have created the right situation for me.

Sherrie

 

I have a tough enough time getting my secretary do normal moral duties I can't imagine asking her to lie.
Murph

 

There are some situations where one must be inventive, without actually lying.

I wrestled with this question in dealing with a father-in-law who is suffering from alzheimers.

He thinks his mum is visiting with us and we should speak with her too. I do. When his wife goes off to do some things, he gets upset about it. We actually lie about where she is. This took some time to feel comfortable about it, but found it the only way to keep him smiling and us sane.

In some jobs where our livlihood is on a precarious footing, we do things that we wouldn't ordinarily do. I am certain I would not lie in that situation, but if I were a secretary, I might get inventive without lying.

If only we could be so sure of what we would do in every given situation. Peter lied, didn't he? He denied knowing the Lord three times. Poor impetuous Peter...I wonder how much of Peter we have inherited?

Cheers,

Jim