The Bible advises us to choose leaders who rule justly and walk faithfully before God (2 Samuel 23:3–4) 1NIV New International Version Translations. It takes wise and discerning judgment to assess the character and competence of our political leaders. “Free will” suggests we bear a certain responsibility in the selection process. We first must participate! Voting is directly related to choosing the governance, authority, type of justice, and wisdom that will guide our nation and our lives. God’s opinions apply to biblical times but are also relevant today. God’s Word can guide us, giving us valuable insights into our nation’s leadership and governance. Lostpine searched for the top ten attributes of godly and competent leaders. Here is our list.
- Visionary: Leaders must look to God for the vision or goal they want them to achieve. Proverbs 29:18 states, “Where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom’s instruction.” It takes divine guidance and wisdom to lead people to purpose-filled lives. Without a vision or divine guidance (revelation), people live unrestrained or purposeless and are morally and spiritually corrupt.
- Mission Focused: Our leaders must remain concerned with reaching non-believers. “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). World dominance is Satan’s mission. Christ’s mission is to offer the world the gospel of salvation. Therefore, nothing can be more important than sustaining our First Amendment rights.
- Passionate: Leaders must care deeply about their responsibilities and be committed to them. “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans” (Proverbs 16:3). The goals of any leader must go beyond self-enrichment.
- Spirit-led: Leaders must seek God first in all they do. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). History tells us there is no peace in godless leadership.
- Servant: Matthew 20:28 reminds us, “just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” There is no godly attribute for “wealth-building.” Leaders must serve those they lead.
- Faith: Leaders must have faith in God’s promises. “By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness in keeping with faith” (Hebrews 11:7). No leader can save us, only our Creator and His Son!
- Humility: Humble leaders listen more, are willing to learn more, foster more trust and respect, and demonstrate more compassion. The Apostle Paul writes in Philippians 2:3–4, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Narcissists work for Satan, not for you!
- Positive Attitude: Leaders must maintain a positive attitude even in the face of adversity. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). It is confidence in God that overcomes all enemies.
- Patience: Leaders must exhibit patience. “But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently” (Romans 8:25). To follow in God’s footsteps is the only path worth pursuing.
- Courage: Leaders must have the courage to face challenges. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). Our enemies love those who lack courage!
- Integrity: Leaders must act with integrity. “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out” (Proverbs 10:9). The best leaders are those who lead with integrity and skill.
These attributes are not only important for biblical leaders but are also necessary for anyone who aims to lead people. They provide a strong foundation for effective and inspirational leadership. Good leaders can be angry on behalf of their people. However, good leaders never hate! You cannot lead effectively if hatred is part of your vision, mission, spirit, servanthood, or faith. Hatred is not part of being courageous or having integrity in the eyes of God. A hate-filled heart impairs judgment and decision-making, creates divisiveness, promotes fear and insecurity, damages relationships, and undermines trust. Beware of the hate-filled attitude!
Contemplations
- How do you know a leader’s heart?
- Ideas to Explore: Can you separate truth from opinion? Does prior performance help your choices? Does a leader’s children indicate anything?
- Should leadership follow the “people’s law?”
- Ideas to Explore: We are a constitutional republic, constraining leaders to the will of the people. Does this fact influence who you choose as a leader? Do you know what your constitutional rights are? Do you know the limits of power our founding fathers placed on government?
- Are you closer to God today than you were four years ago?
- Ideas to Explore: This question is the only one that God cares about!
- 1NIV New International Version Translations