So God replied, “Because you have asked for wisdom in governing my people with justice… I will give you what you asked for! I will give you a wise and understanding heart such as no one else has had or ever will have!” 1 Kings 3:11–12 (NLT)
If you study the first few kings in the Old Testament, you’ll find important leadership qualities that we should all develop in our own lives. Let me show you three of them today.
Saul was the first king to lead God's people. Although he made plenty of mistakes later in life, one of the first things you’ll notice at the beginning of his leadership was humility. He wasn’t seeking fame or royal status. In fact, the prophet Samuel had to track him down, prophesy to him and pull him into leadership.
The next king was David. One of his greatest characteristics was passion. David did nothing half-heartedly. Zeal was a part of every victory he accomplished. The problem was, he sinned with passion too.
After David came Solomon, who understood that wisdom was the principal thing. When given the chance to ask God for anything, he chose to ask for an understanding heart.
All three of these qualities build upon each other. A leader with humility but no passion won’t accomplish much. And even if you’re humble and passionate, you can still be passionately wrong. That’s why we need wisdom to properly direct our passion and humility.
Ask God to help you develop these three qualities. As you grow in humility, passion and wisdom, you’ll become a better leader, spouse, parent and disciple of Jesus!
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