How to choose Leaders

The time for a new King had come. The first one had looked like a great one. He was handsome, a head taller than anyone else, impressive in every aspect.

His reign started out well, but it didn’t take long for things to go sideways. Power and status went to his head, proving Abraham Lincoln right when he observed many years later:

“Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.”

The first King, Saul, disqualified himself from his leadership role by overstepping boundaries, given to him by the King of all Kings. Like many politicians and leaders today, he feigned remorse, gave an insincere apology and hoped he could go on with his reign as if nothing ever happened.

God took a different stance. Because Saul had not been able to keep a simple command, his kingdom rule would end. In fact, God was already looking for his replacement and the one chosen would be a man after God’s own heart.

The prophet was sent to Jesse’s house from whom the new leader was to be selected. When all seven sons were lined up before the prophet, he thought each one of these strapping young man had the makings of a king. Surprisingly though, none of them were picked by God. The prophet was told:

“Looks aren’t everything. Don’t be impressed with looks and stature.” God judges people differently. Men and women look at the face; God looks into the heart,”

—a characteristic we should adopt! The one chosen, David, would become Israel’s most famous King, beloved by everyone. He shepherded Israel with integrity of heart and lead them with skillful hands. (Psalm 78:72) David wasn’t without fault, but he was upright, honest, and didn’t try to weasel his way out of a self-made pickle. (2. Samuel 12:13)

As we are engaging in the democratic process to select new leaders for political office on every level, we would do well to remember that there is a connection between moral character and the performance of one’s job. No matter how angry or disappointed we may be about past or current leaders, we should not impulsively choose whoever “looks” best.

A good person with integrity is to be preferred over a very qualified but lying, cheating, intimidating person.

After all, the chosen can be qualified, but a bad person will not suddenly become good.