Session 10

What to look for in a leader

From Proverbs: A 31-Day Devotional

Have you ever been led by someone and thought, “I’d follow them anywhere”? How did you feel in those circumstances?  Empowered, refreshed, motivated? Maybe, your experience was different and you questioned your leadership and felt oppressed.

While stature and title can be a part of leadership, they aren’t the deciding factors.

For most of us, to be a leader means to be in charge, to be the boss. While stature and title can be a part of leadership they aren’t the deciding factors. In Proverbs 28, God gives us a clear picture of what it takes to be a good leader:

• They are bold and their confidence comes from their relationship with the Lord (Proverbs 28:1).
• Good leaders bring stability (Proverbs 28:2).
• They uphold and respect the law (Proverbs 28:4-5, Proverbs 28:7, Proverbs 28:9).
• They protect the poor and vulnerable (Proverbs 28:3, Proverbs 28:15, Proverbs 28:27).
• They admit when they are wrong (Proverbs 28:13-14, Proverbs 28:17-18, Proverbs 28:22).
• Good leaders do not show partiality and are not self-seeking (Proverbs 28:10, Proverbs 28:19-23).
• They surround themselves with wise advisors and are humble enough to ask for help (Proverbs 28:26).

It may surprise you to realize that you can lead right where you are. You don’t have to be in charge to bring stability. You don’t have to be the boss to be fair or respect the law. And you don’t have to be at the helm of a big organization to benefit from wise counsel. Pointing out these qualities in others and refining them in ourselves is a great way to start leading wherever we are.

Reflect:

• Does anyone come to mind who exemplifies the qualities of a leader listed here?  Reach out today and let that person know he or she is leading well.   
• Which one quality of a good leader do you feel is your weakest? Ask God for help! He can strengthen you in this area and show you how to take steps to change.
• When was the last time you prayed for your leaders? Leaders at every level benefit from our prayers and support.