"Qualities of a Leader" - A Devotional for Thursday

1 Timothy 3:1a; 2b-7 (TM): “If anyone wants to provide leadership… there are preconditions: A leader must be well-thought-of, committed to his wife, cool and collected, accessible, and hospitable. He must know what he's talking about, not be overfond of wine, not pushy but gentle, not thin-skinned, not money-hungry. He must handle his own affairs well, attentive to his own children and having their respect.”

As we wrap up the devotionals this week about "being a better citizen" I have one question left: Could you be the leader of your country? President? Prime Minister? Queen/King? Most people don't think it's all that hard...thinking they could perform equally if not better than their current leaders...

But before we fit ourselves with the royal crown, let's take a look at what the Bible says a leader should be:

1. Have a good reputation
2. Have a strong marriage (if married)
3. Shows great self-control
4. Friendly and approachable
5. Cares for the comfort of others
6. Knowledgeable
7. Sober
8. Gentle
9. Confident
10. Money-wise
11. Controls the calendar / results
12. A great parent (if one)

This morning, before we dismiss this list as "unattainable" let's take a closer look. How many of these do we exhibit in our daily walk with Christ? My guess is that all of us could use some tuning-up in a few... even if you don't consider yourself a "leader." Truth is, all of us lead someone (even if it is just ourselves). The Bible doesn't say that these are the qualifications of only a president...it says leader. In other words...you and I. Let's spend some time in our journals this morning asking God what elements from this list are lacking in our leadership...and then how to fix or develop them.

Who knows...you could be the next one in charge of your country!

See you tomorrow for prayer Friday!
Pastor Brian