What does God look for in a leader? Tucked away in Psalm 78 is a brief description of one of Israel’s greatest kings – king David. Psalm 78 is a didactic Psalm in which the author presents a panorama of God’s goodness despite Israel’s unfaithfulness. As the author, Asaph, concludes this Psalm, he presents the essential characteristics of the type of individual God uses to lead His people,

So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, and guided them with his skillful hands. (Psalm 78:72)

This verse presents two essential characteristics that God looks for in those who lead His people. When we think of effective leaders, we often think of their competencies. Can they do what we’re expecting them to do? The Psalmist records that David had “skillful hands.” The word, “skillful”, is often translated “understanding” and is a common word in the Old Testament book of Proverbs.

Leaders need to be able to understand the times and have a sense of direction for the people. As we consider David’s abilities, we see that he was a proven warrior, an accomplished musician, and an experienced shepherd.

Those in secular leadership can usually get by simply by focusing on their competencies, but for the Christian leader it’s only part of the equation. We read that David “shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart.” The word “integrity” conveys the idea of wholeness or completeness. David was chosen because he had a heart that was devoted to God,

But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)

A godly character is not optional for the Christian leader. As Paul enumerates the characteristics of those who lead the church (elders and deacons) we see that they are character qualities. Integrity of heart is a sine qua non for the person God uses. A weakness in competency can delay you from a leadership position, but a weakness in character will disqualify you from leadership. Competency  is an outward measure that involves your relationship to a task, whereas character is an inward measure that involves your relationship to God. We see that both character and competency are necessary for effective spiritual leadership.

How can you develop your leadership ability? You will find that books, conferences, and mentors can be helpful; however, one of the best ways to develop your character and competencies is to face challenging situations and learn to depend upon God. The great fallacy of leadership is to think that you can lead others out of the valley if you have never been there. Step out in faith and allow God to perform His refining work in your life,

Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. (James 1:2-4)

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

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