Core values. Core values are what makes you what you really are. What’s important to you? What will you fight for? What will you die for?

As Christians, our core values come from the Bible, God’s holy and powerful Word. At OCS, the four core values we embrace are Respect, Integrity, Value and Unity. This spells R-I-V-U. Respect those older than you, your peers and those younger than you. Have integrity. Be consistent and dependable. Keep your word. Do what is right. Value means you do things, claim things, and buy things that last, not because they are cheapest or quickest or easiest. Strive for unity with your friends and family. Stay together, keep short accounts, give and receive forgiveness and grace. Like the Bible says, be one.

As missionaries and MKs, we are always encountering change. This can be really hard at times. Friends leave. We move and constantly have to adjust our lives. The school moves. Sometimes teachers come and go. If your foundation is in God’s Word, if you have the right core values, then it is easier to deal with change.

If you think about it, the only thing that doesn’t change in our lives is God. “For I, the Lord, do not change…” (Malachi 3:6). With God there are no earthquakes or mudslides or protests. Our foundation in life is solid and will never change.

So claim your core values and base them on God and His Word. Then go forward with confidence because God will guide you. No regrets.

Former OCS Principal, David Shaver