Why Virtue Must Be First

People will say,"Which virtues do you support?" For starters, this list comes to mind: "whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise..".

But before we can discuss any virtues, it should be noted that a vast number of people have no concept of why they must insist on virtues or which virtues have priority. As an example, the faith community is often quite divided and "every man does what is right in his own eyes." It should come as no surprise that if many within the faith community operate according to this principle, then without question those who reverence no higher authority are endeared to their own wisdom. The pervasive societal attitude is more about "what's in it for me" or "what will it will cost me" (c.f.- The Social Cost of Virtue-less Government).

So, is there any absolute authority that rises above that of humanity? To quote Judeo-Christian scripture, "The fool hath said in his heart, 'There is no God.'" Without further theological debate, we simply assert that God exists. Proof is abundant and outside the scope of this text. Nevertheless, Judeo-Christian teaching proclaims that not only is there a God, but that He is sovereign over nations and peoples. His will is both supreme and above reproach. While He is characterized accurately and popularly by the qualities of "love" and "mercy", He is, nevertheless, also characterized by "judgement" and "wrath". Given this proposition, that God is both real and accurately described, it should be self-evident that we not elevate those who would provoke the judgement or incite the wrath of God.

The wisdom of God states that there are consequences to empowering immoral leaders. One does not have to look far nor probe deep to discover this truth. Outside the faith community, this may be harder to accept. Nevertheless, it is borne out by objective data. Likewise, many in the faith community have mistaken God's patience and forbearance for tolerance of sin. This is rather like raising a large metallic flag pole in the midst of a thunderstorm: just because lightning has yet to strike is no reason to abandon the laws of reason or scientific fact. In short, any man that would govern his life or those of others without regard to the judgement of his Creator is dangerous to himself and those he governs. If not for any other reason, this alone obligates us to seek virtue as the initial qualifier of all candidates who will hold an office of public trust. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge."