SPENDING TIME WITH GOD

Devotionals

By: Mike Price

A FREEDOM IN CHRIST MINISTRY PUBLICATION

GOOD CHARACTER MAKES A GODLY LEADER

Scripture: Isaiah 31-35

"Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers -- not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." - 1 Peter 5:2-3

We can find all kinds of books and articles about leadership. We find some written about elders, deacons and teachers that often differ from biblical principles.  Leadership is not about style.  Do leaders simply make the decisions and carry them out, or should they consult with the people and get input from others before they act?  This could be a YES or NO answer depending on the circumstances.

It has always seemed to me that leadership style depends on the circumstances and focusing on the style of leadership does not always translate into good character.  "…train yourself to be godly.  For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:7-8

For instance, as a leader one should like the idea of consulting with people and receiving their wisdom on the subject.  Why not depend on others to help as a leader when making decisions?  When an elder has around him other skilled and spiritual elders, preachers and deacons to draw from as well as the congregation of God's people that he is serving, why not consult them? 

Of course, if it is about having one’s own way then I can see why a leader would not want input on a decision – he would not have total control if he consulted with others – he would not have his way or be able to move forward with his agenda - he would not feel he could get it done openly, so he meets behind closed doors with a few of the leaders he feels he has sway over and then announces their decision without further discussion or input from the body-   WHY??? Because depending on the input of others would not conveniently fit his style.   See this has to do with style not good character.

On the other hand, if we are in an airplane and one engine is on fire, the landing gear is stuck, and the instrument panel is going haywire - we certainly would not expect, nor do we want the captain to come back to the passenger section, asking our opinion about what to do in this crisis when he is the experienced pilot. 

We want him to fly the plain.  We want all his expertise at the controls.  We want him to recall all his training.  We want him to use his understanding that is now natural to him through his years of experience to get that airplane safely on the ground. Of course, if he is not willing to depend on his co-pilot to some degree during the crises then the character of his leadership is now in question.  No one leader can "do it all.” – No one leader can "know it all,” and to try shows a lack of character!

GOOD CHARACTER: is a set of qualities with high standards in relation to God or others, that makes somebody distinctive in moral excellence, especially somebody’s qualities of mind and heart, having the appropriate values to be something or to fit a particular purpose.    

In a crisis, good leaders look also to others who lead to make sure things are done with the right motive for the right reasons.  This way, pride and ego does not slip in and destroy their potential to be leaders with good character.

That is exactly why the Holy Spirit made it clear that there must always be a plurality of elders, shepherds, overseers that are leading a body of believers so they can look to each and no one person is in control.   Elders, who have deacons they can depend on because they have trained them by setting an example of faithfulness to God and love for people who are under their leadership, should look to these deacons for input.  Elders, who love the congregation and are trusted by the body, because they communicate openly with them on all things that concern the body’s life, must continue receiving input from the congregation.  Elders are trusted when they keep private those things that pertain to an individual’s personal issues.   This should be kept as private information between the elder or elders and those they counsel. 

So when the Bible deals with the subject of leadership, it doesn't dwell on the style of the leader, but on the character of the leader. 

Notice the words of the prophet in Isaiah, "See, a king will reign in righteousness and rulers will rule with justice. " Isaiah 32:1

A leader's daily walk of righteousness is fundamental to good character in leadership. 

 "The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever."

 Isaiah 32:17

It is the one who leads God’s people not because he must, but because he is willing, bringing a peace that promotes a quietness and confidence in the family of God.  Men of good character make good leaders!

A leader for God brings Good Character to the table, which allows for an acceptable style of leadership that submits to and follows the direction of God’s word given by the Holy Spirit. This is the kind of leader God needs for his people. 

As leaders - is our style of leadership one of Good Character?

Is our style of leadership a style that God accepts?

In leadership, Good Character is the bottom line.

HERE IS A SHORT PRAYER: "Our Father who art in heaven, holy is your name and lifted up above all other names.  Help me to walk in your righteousness, so that when I lead, I can do it with a quiet and clear conscience in a confident love for all, bringing a peace to those who follow, in Jesus name. Amen!"

 

SCRIPTURE: "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.  It teaches us to say "No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope – the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.” Titus 2:11-14

Mike Price