Inside Out Living

True Faced is a message by John Lynch (Not the football player) of Leadership Catalyst that you should definitely listen to. It is about how we don't need to go around with our masks on pretending that we don't have any issues and that everything is fine. Click here for a place to download the message.

This morning I was reading Proverbs 28 and I was struck with the number of verses that had a reference to a national leader or ruler. I could help but think of the recent inauguration of President Barak Obama. Now I know that it may sound presumptuous for me to offer the president advice, but the advice is not really mine, it is God's. There are six proverbial truths in this chapter (probably more but six I will mention) that would help any leader succeed and be a blessing to those he leaders.

1) Avoid Immorality (28:2a) - Many presidents (and other leaders for that matter) who have gone before Obama could tell him the headaches of getting involved in immorality. Loss of respect and loss of effectiveness to influence other leaders come with this problem as well.

2) Exercise wisdom (28:2b) - I know this one really goes without saying anything except duh! But how many times have we seen foolish decisions from leaders because they are trying to appease someone else instead of focusing on the right thing to do.

3) Pursue godliness (28:12) - I don't know if Barack Obama is a Christian (one who has placed faith in Jesus for salvation). Whatever label he uses to identify himself with does not dictate the spiritual reality. Only God knows the heart of a man. However to pursue godliness from this point forward will drastically change his life for the better (as it would any individual).

4) Practice fairness & justice (28:15, 28a) - Yes this is something that God cares about, especially from leaders of nations. It is something that everyone should care about too. Remember God's love extends to everyone so we should care about what happens to everyone.

5) Honor other people (28:16a) - Whether you like them or not, you need to honor and give credit to other people whenever they deserve it. Show appreciation and gratitude of those you are leading. There is nothing more disheartening to have a leader that doesn't recognize your hard work and effective results.

6) Maintain integrity (28:16b) - This is different from the first point. It may be the most difficult item on this list as a politician and leader. That is not to excuse it away or minimize its importance. A high level of integrity is intregal to a leaders ability to lead and influence other people. Just as the mayor of Portland, OR.

Samuel was a man of God and a good leader for Israel. However, for all that he did right, he failed in one area. He did not learn from the mistake of his predecessor, Eli. 1 Samuel 8:1-3 reveals that Samuel’s sons were lacking in integrity much the same way that Eli’s sons were. We then see this lack of integrity result in Israel demanding a king to rule over them.

When it comes to leadership, integrity or personal character is what gives you the trust of the people. According to Christian leadership guru John Maxwell, “Trust is the foundation of leadership…People will forgive occasional mistakes based on ability. But they won’t trust someone who has slips in character.”

Israel could not trust Samuel’s sons, Joel and Abijah, so their opportunity to lead the nation was taken away. How is your character? Would those who know you best say that you are a person of integrity? Fortunately, God is able and willing to work in your life and help you grow in this area if you ask for His help.