• 1 Timothy 3:1 HCSB  This saying is trustworthy: "If anyone aspires to be an overseer, he desires a noble work."
  

Guess what? Leadership is not necessarily something you're born with. Leadership is a skill just like any other and can be learned. It doesn't matter what your spiritual gift is. It doesn't matter what your educational background is. ANYONE can be a potential leader; that is, anyone humble enough to learn and self-disciplined enough to apply what they learn. 

As our congregation keeps growing and our ministries increase we are needing more and more leaders. This is where you'll find our notes to ourselves that deal with leadership. As we grow and evolve and make mistakes and correct those mistakes...we'll keep track of the progress here. 

As always, our primary source of instruction is the Bible. We'll always take direct leadership lessons from the Scriptures. Other, day-to-day, common sense stuff will be sniffed with suspicion and taken with a grain of salt. But direct lessons from the Scriptures? That's a whole different kettle of fish. 

So let's get started, shall we? 
 

Recognize that positions of leadership come from God.

• Psalms 75:4-7 HCSB  I say to the boastful, 'Do not boast,' and to the wicked, 'Do not lift up your horn.  (5)  Do not lift up your horn against heaven or speak arrogantly.'"  (6)  Exaltation does not come from the east, the west, or the desert,  (7)  for God is the judge: He brings down one and exalts another.
  
• Daniel 4:25 HCSB  You will be driven away from people to live with the wild animals. You will feed on grass like cattle and be drenched with dew from the sky for seven periods of time, until you acknowledge that the Most High is ruler over the kingdom of men, and He gives it to anyone He wants.
  

Build character. 

1. Regularly dedicate time to quiet meditation and planning. (Psalm 55:16-17; 88:1; Daniel 6:10)
   
2. Practice the disciplines of the Way faithfully.(Proverbs 20:6; Matthew 24:44-47; Luke 16:10-12)
   
3. Fasting – a regular time of fasting instills discipline of the body and allows you an ideal time and optimum physical condition for quality thinking or learning time. (Joel 1:14; 2:12-14; Matthew 6:16-18)
   
4. Chastity – faithfulness to your chosen partner. (Exodus 20:14; Proverbs 2:10, 16-20; Matthew 5:27-28; Acts 15:20; Romans 13:13-14)
   

Train the will. (Lamentations 3:27; James 4:10; 1 Peter 5:5-6)

1. Do something you don’t like doing and do it often.
   
2. Deprive yourself of something pleasant.
   
3. Demand definite quotas of performance of yourself.
   
4. Do something difficult – challenge yourself.
   

Do not demand - command. (1 Timothy 4:12)
     “Don’t let them despise you.” How? By being a model of speech, conduct, love, faith and purity.”
     Leadership does not come part and parcel with a title. It does not come as a package deal with an office. Leadership must be earned. Respect and trust must be earned. Moral authority must be earned. You can have all the degrees, titles, and offices you like. It means nothing in regards to eternity. How many men were called “great” during the course of history, that we cannot even recall today? Even if someone were to mention their name to you most would not bring the light of recognition in your eyes. The only one whose memory is permanent is the Lord. He is the only one we need to impress and the only way to impress Him is through quiet, holy, serving lives. Do that – be that – and He may choose to grant you leadership.

Work hard at being a good example. (1 Timothy 4:12; Titus 2:7-8; 1 Peter 5:2-3)

Be a self-starter. (Proverbs 6:6-8; 13:4; 22:13; 26:12-16)

Obey yourself. 
     Do not only follow the same standards you set for others – exceed them. (Nehemiah 5:14-19; Proverbs 10:9; 1 Corinthians 4:6; 15:9-10; 2 Corinthians 11:21-23)

Do everything well - to the best of your ability. (2 Chronicles 31:21; Ecclesiastes 9:10; Colossians 3:23)

Constantly seek knowledge. (Proverbs 15:14; 8:10) Why? Because knowledge is power! (Proverbs 3:20; 24:5-6)

Teach a way of life. (Nehemiah 8:8, 12) 
     Leadership is the ability to furnish a real lead, to be able to distil the need of the people, provide them with an appropriate vision and then show them how to get there. True Christian leadership is investing one’s life in guiding a group towards worthy Christian ideals and accomplishments.

Hold to your convictions. (Proverbs 1:10-19; 3:21; Hebrews 2:1)

Be a protector.
     Look out for your own, even if it means taking risks or taking the fall for them. (John 10:11-13, 17; Ezekiel 22:26-31)

Seek respect and trust not title or position. 
     You don’t need a title. What you need is the respect and trust of the people. (Matthew 23:1-12)

Touch their hearts before you ask for a hand. 
     Win their support. (1 Samuel 18:12-16; Luke 2:51-52; Acts 17:22-23; 1 Timothy 3:2, 7, 9; Titus 1:6)

Become a good conversationalist.
Read widely
1)    Acts 17:28 There are two quotations here:
     a)    “In Him we live and move and exist,” from the Cretan poet Epimenides (c. 600 BC a sixth century native of Knossos, Crete) in his Cretica, and
     b)    “For we also are His children,” from the Cilician poet Aratus (c. 315-240) in his Phaenomena, as well as from Cleanthes (331-233) in his Hymn to Zeus;

2)    1 Corinthians 15:33 A quotation from the Greek comedy Thais written by the Greek poet Menander;

3)    Titus 1:12 from the poet Epimenides who was held in high esteem by the Cretans. Several fulfilled predictions were ascribed to him.

Remember human interest stories. (Luke 13:1-4)

Be interested in people. (Romans 15:1-3; Philippians 2:4)

Have a positive attitude. (2 Corinthians 4:16-18; James 1:2-3)

Be pleasant to be around. (Proverbs 15:15; Ecclesiastes 8:15; 11:10; 1 Corinthians 16:18; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Philippians 2:14; 4:8-9; Keys to positive attitude 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; 2 Timothy 2:24)

Avoid: (Proverbs 4:24; Matthew 12:36-37; Ephesians 4:29; 5:3-4; Colossians 3:8; 4:6)

1. Focusing the conversation on yourself.
   
2. Bragging. No leader displays all his knowledge. Proverbs 12:23 says that a shrewd person conceals knowledge. There must be a reserve. Why? It is because people never quite respect the person who holds nothing in reserve. Leadership should have surplus power in reserve, too; sufficient to any occasion. It can exercise sagacious tact in the releasing of that power. Leadership should have superior knowledge, but be so skilled in the technique of imparting it, that, like gravitation, silently the power is felt but the source of the power is unseen. 
   
3. Complaining
   
4. Gossip
   
5. Slander
   
6. Coarseness
   
7. Loud talking
   
8. Vulgarity
   
9. Profanity

Choose your entourage carefully. 
     A leader’s potential is determined by those closest to him. Make sure that you surround yourself with as strong a group of leaders as you can lead and make sure that they are good at the things that you are not. (2 Samuel 23:8-23; Proverbs 12:15; 15:22)

Accept the responsibilities that go with the position.

1. Nehemiah 1:11 He takes responsibility for the rebuilding of Jerusalem;
2. Nehemiah 2:18 took responsibility to lead the people;
3. Nehemiah 4:13 organized their defense, protected them;
4. Nehemiah 4:23 joined physically in the work;
5. Nehemiah 5:6-7 brought justice to the people;
6. Nehemiah 5:14-19 did not take the rewards he was due

Take hold of the reins and work hard to keep them. (Joshua 1:2, 6-10)

Fill your followers’ needs. (Matthew 20:26-28; James 2:17-18; 1 Peter 2:12)

1. Try to always give more than you receive. (Matthew 5:44-42; Acts 20:35)
2. Be willing to sacrifice for the cause. You must be willing to give up in order to go up. (1 Corinthians 9:13-15;
3. Remember the names of their loved ones. If you aren’t good at remembering names and faces you’d better learn or as soon as you discreetly can, write down their names and pertinent facts. Also remember favorite foods, drinks, places, etc. (Philippians 1:3; Notice how Paul takes care at the end of each epistle to mention their names and the kind things they did for him).

Provide a sense of direction. (Proverbs 29:18) 
     You must have a vision, an ultimate goal. Vision draws people toward a common purpose and helps them pull together as one team rather than going their own way. Vision provides a standard by which every activity can be tested. And it provides an image of things hoped for that enables faith. Know where you’re going and how to get there. Find out where you’re going, draw a map of how to get there, then get others to go with you. Do not stop to ponder the pathways but study the map while others sleep. (Nehemiah 2:12)
     As terrible a man as he was, Adolf Hitler was undeniably capable of mesmerizing huge crowds and of influencing millions to action. He described the masses as follows:

• “The crowd is like a woman. Someone who does not understand the intrinsically feminine character of the masses will never be an effective leader. A woman expects from a man clearness, decision, power and action.”[1] 
  

• “The people, in an overwhelming majority, are so feminine in their nature and attitude that their activities and thoughts are motivated less by sober consideration than by feeling and sentiment.”[2]
  

This principle worked for Jesus as well. 

• Matthew 7:28-29 HCSB  When Jesus had finished this sermon, the crowds were astonished at His teaching,  (29)  because He was teaching them like one who had authority, and not like their scribes.

Seek direction through quiet meditation.

Develop your intuition. 
     Evaluate everything with a leadership bias. (Nehemiah 6:1-12)

Develop a sense of timing.

1. When to lead is just as important as what to do and where to go. (2 Samuel 5:17-25)
2. Try to get a momentum going that comes from a series of victories. Follow through! (Joshua 8:26; 10:29-43)

Be decisive (Joshua 24:15)

1. Do not be afraid of or run from decision making. (1 Corinthians 6:2)
2. Pray about your decisions. (2 Samuel 5:17-25)
3. Get all the facts. (Proverbs 18:13, 15; Luke 14:28-32)
4. Establish leadership strategies (goals and plans). Foresee decisions that will have to be made and make them ahead of time. (Numbers 13:1-2; 21:32; Joshua 1:6; 2:1; 1 Samuel 26:4). To move the church or organization towards its vision, leaders must set goals and establish plans. They must communicate the vision, goals, and plans throughout the organization. And they must demonstrate commitment to those visions, goals and plans.
5. Practice making decisions. Consider the consequences of your decisions. Follow the results of your decisions and see what happened. Learn.
6. Seek counsel from others when making major decisions. (Proverbs 12:15; 15:22; 27:6)
7. If you can, do not make decisions when hungry, tired, and stressed. (1 Kings 19:1-10)
8. Watch out for “good” when it is not “best” (1 Corinthians 6:12; 10:23)
9. Make the best interest of others the basis of your decisions. (Philippians 2:3-4)
10. Do not procrastinate (Ecclesiastes 11:6; Matthew 25:2-13; Acts 24:25; 2 Corinthians 6:2)
11. Do not depend on others to make your decisions for you. (Galatians 1:15-17)
12. Make neither quick nor slow decisions. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, 17; 8:5-6)
13. Burn your bridges behind you. Follow through. (Philippians 3:13-14; 1 Corinthians 9:26; 2 Timothy 4:7) Leaders must put a process in place to ensure that plans are implemented, progress is evaluated, and the church or organization continually learns, grows and advances toward its vision.
14. Be consistent and follow through! Have you heard that before? It’s because it’s that important. (Proverbs 24:21-22; James 5:12)

Display confidence

1. Take an air of confidence. (Joshua 1:6)
2. Avoid people who undermine confidence. (Proverbs 13:20; 1 Corinthians 15:33)
3. Overcome inferiority complexes. (Deuteronomy 20:1; Job 12:3; 13:2)
4. Do things that build confidence:

          a)    Discover your own unique gifts, talents, or abilities (1 Corinthians 12:1-31; Ephesians 4:11-13; Hebrews 13:20-21)
          b)    Increase your knowledge and improve your skills (Genesis 31:1-5; Exodus 31:1-5; 35:35; 36:1; Proverbs 1:1-7; Ecclesiastes 9:10; Isaiah 54:16)

       5. Avoid failure patterns and build success patterns (Matthew 7:24-27; Luke 6:46-49; Romans 2:13; James 1:22-25)

Be organized (Nehemiah)

1. 1 Kings 5:12-18 Organization for building the temple
2. Ezekiel 40:44-46 Organized priests
3. Mark 3:13-19 Appointing twelve apostles
4. Luke 9:14 Organized for a miracle
5. 1 Corinthians 12:28-31 Church organization
6. 1 Corinthians 14:40 Everything should be done decently and in order

Establish teamwork and unity. (1 Corinthians 12:12) 
     Leaders must establish an organization based on teamwork. They must view the church or organization as a big team made up of smaller teams. And they must involve as many people as possible on teams with specific missions to help move the organization toward its vision.

1. Find a way to let your people win. (Joshua 8:3-8)
2. You must care for other’s success more than your own. (Numbers 11:24-30; Romans 15:1-2; 1 Corinthians 10:24; Philippians 2:4)

Empower those leaders that follow you. (Luke 24:49; Acts 6:2-7) 
     Spiritual empowerment comes from God through the indwelling Holy Spirit. Practical empowerment comes from leaders who remove barriers to effective work, train people how to do their work, and involve people in working toward the vision.

1. Give your power away. Delegate to them and then back them up. (Num. 11:16-17; 1 Corinthians 16:10-11)
2. Delegate responsibility: (Numbers 27:18-20)
3. Hire the best. (Exodus 31:1-6; 35:10, 25-26, 30; 36:1, 8)
4. Choose workers you respect. (Acts 6:3; 1 Timothy 3:7)
5. Choose those that are loyal. (Exodus 22:28)
6. Be certain each understands his job. (2 Kings 12:1-2)
7. Dream great dreams for your subordinates. (John 14:12)
8. Don’t overstep their authority, recognize the chain of command; even the one below you. (Galatians 2:1-2)
9. Give them your trust. (2 Samuel 3:6-13)
10. Consult those involved. (1 Samuel 14:4-7)
11. Listen to their ideas and suggestions: (1 Sam. 25:18-35 esp. v.35)

          a)    Stop everything and give your full attention or make an appointment. Listen carefully. (Proverbs 11:12; James 1:19)

          b)    Be understanding. Sympathize with his ideas. More than anything a person wants to be heard and considered. This is more important than to have his ideas materialize. (1 Peter 3:8; 2 Samuel 15:1-6)

          c)    Tell him you will think about it and do give it careful consideration. DO this although the answer may be so evident that you have no doubts. After you’ve carefully weighed the suggestion, if the idea is sound, point out why in a manner both kind and firm.  (Proverbs 18:13; 20:25)

         d)    Express appreciation. Remember, you want him to continue coming up with ideas and suggestions. (Philippians 1:3; 1 Thessalonians 1:2; 2 Thessalonians 1:3)

         e)    Listen to special requests and desires. (Proverbs 13:12)

          f)    Listen to their problems.

          g)    Don’t be like Job’s friends! (Job 6:14-15)

          h)    Instead, be like Job. (Job 4:3-4)

          i)    Listen to objections, complaints, and dissenting voices. (Psalms 141:5; Proverbs 27:6)

Allow for your own mistakes. (Philippians 3:13)

1. Remember and remind others that you’re only human. (Psalm 19:12-13; Psalm 139:23-24; Acts 14:15 “We too are only men”)
2. Acknowledge your need for others. 1 Corinthians 3:6-7 Because we’re only human we need one another in ministry like Paul acknowledged that he needed Apollos. (Philippians 3:12-14; 1 John 1:8-10)
3. Aim for perfection but don’t be shattered when you don’t attain it. Be realistic. (Ecclesiastes 7:20; Genesis 17:1; Deuteronomy 5:32; 18:13; Joshua 23:6; Matthew 5:48; 2 Corinthians 7:1; 13:11)
4. Accept proper correction.

          a)    Accept the consequences.  (Job 5:17; Psalms 94:12;  Proverbs 3:11; Hebrews 12:5-11)

          b)    Accept the responsibility of putting it right. (Luke 19:8)

Continue to improve yourself and expand your work. (James 1:4; but how? Ephesians 4:11; Hebrews 6:1)

Do not be easily stopped. (1 Corinthians 4:11-13; 9:24-27)

Learn to turn problems into opportunities.
1)    Jeremiah 33:10-11 thank God in adverse circumstances;

2)    Philippians 1:12 problems enhance progress;

3)    James 1:2-4, 12 problems can mature you if handled correctly

Build for the ages.
     A leader’s lasting value is measured by succession. Don’t be one of those flash in the pan, charismatic leaders that can build while they are there by sheer force of personality but whose organization collapses when they move on. (Isaiah 5:18-24; Matthew 6:19-2; 1 Peter 1:24-25)

Try to have a good relationship with other leaders. (1 Corinthians 1:10; Philippians 4:2-3)

[1] Adolf Hitler, 1923, to Hanfstaengl
[2] Adolf Hitler, in Mein Kampf, p.237

1 Samuel 10:17-24 HCSB  Samuel summoned the people to the LORD at Mizpah  (18)  and said to the Israelites, "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'I brought Israel out of Egypt, and I rescued you from the power of the Egyptians and all the kingdoms that were oppressing you.'  (19)  But today you have rejected your God, who saves you from all your troubles and afflictions. You said to Him, 'You must set a king over us.' Now therefore present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes and clans." 

1.    Saul was faithless.

• 1 Samuel 10:20-22 HCSB  Samuel had all the tribes of Israel come forward, and the tribe of Benjamin was selected.  (21)  Then he had the tribe of Benjamin come forward by its clans, and the Matrite clan was selected. Finally, Saul son of Kish was selected. But when they searched for him, they could not find him.  (22)  They again inquired of the LORD, "Has the man come here yet?" The LORD replied, "There he is, hidden among the supplies."
  

What he did wrong:

a. Lacked faith in God’s calling (Isaiah 51:2; Hebrews 3:7)

b. Did not value the voice of the people (Acts 13:2; 22:12)

c. Showed his fear publicly (Joshua 1:6; Proverbs 28:1; 2 Timothy 1:7)

What we should learn:

a.    Take God at His word and act on it. (Numbers 13:30; Psalm 27:14; 31:24)

b.    Recruit. Get others to follow God with you. (Judges 4:14; Isaiah 40:9)

c.    Place your confidence in the Lord rather than your own skills. (1 Samuel 14:6; Amos 2:14; Matthew 19:26 cp Mark 10:27 and Luke 18:27; Romans 8:31)

d.    Carry lessons in faith from one circumstance to another. (1 Samuel 17:37)

e.    Publicly commit yourself to the will of God. (1 Samuel 17:46-47) (i.e. the Viking method)

f.     Base the lion’s share of my faith in the written Word. (1 Chronicles 22:13)

g.    Don’t just rely on blind faith, work out a plan too. (Nehemiah 4:20)

h.    Don’t presume that you know all the mind of God. (1 Samuel 22:3)

i.      God will not keep you from challenging situations but will be with you in their midst. (Psalm 23:4; 62:6)

j.      Ask God to help you rise to the occasion. (Psalm 71:1)

k.    Consciously increase your fear of the Lord and decrease your fear of man. (Psalm 118:6)

l.      Increase your commitment to righteous living. It promotes confidence; boldness. (Proverbs 10:9; Daniel 6:16 “long obedience in the right direction”)

m.  Don’t fear failure. Be prepared to fail and keep going anyway. (Proverbs 24:16; Micah 7:8)

n.    Don’t succumb to OVER confidence however. (1 Corinthians 10:12) Don’t fear failure in performance but do fear failure in character or morals. God will help you overcome the first, but if you succumb to the second God Himself is against you!

2.    Saul took Jonathan’s credit

• 1 Samuel 13:1-4 HCSB  Saul was 30 years old when he became king, and he reigned 42 years over Israel.  (2)  He chose 3,000 men from Israel for himself: 2,000 were with Saul at Michmash and in Bethel's hill country, and 1,000 were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin. He sent the rest of the troops away, each to his own tent.  (3)  Jonathan attacked the Philistine garrison that was in Geba, and the Philistines heard about it. So Saul blew the ram's horn throughout the land saying, "Let the Hebrews hear!"  (4)  And all Israel heard the news, "Saul has attacked the Philistine garrison, and Israel is now repulsive to the Philistines." Then the troops were summoned to join Saul at Gilgal.
  

What he did wrong:

Took credit that was not his so they could not trust his word

What we should learn:

a.    Try to have a good relationship with other leaders. (1 Corinthians 1:10; Philippians 4:2-3)

b.    Establish teamwork and unity. (1 Corinthians 12:12) Leaders must establish an organization based on teamwork. They must view the church or organization as a big team made up of smaller teams. And they must involve as many people as possible on teams with specific missions to help move the organization toward its vision.

c.    Find a way to let your people win. (Joshua 8:3-8)

d.    You must care for other’s success more than your own. (Numbers 11:24-30; Romans 15:1-2; 1 Corinthians 10:24; Philippians 2:4)

e.    Empower those leaders that follow you. (Luke 24:49; Acts 6:2-7) Spiritual empowerment comes from God through the indwelling Holy Spirit. Practical empowerment comes from leaders who remove barriers to effective work, train people how to do their work, and involve people in working toward the vision.

f.     Give your power away. Delegate to them and then back them up. (Numbers 11:16-17; 1 Corinthians 16:10-11)

g.    Delegate responsibility: (Numbers 27:18-20)
    1)    Hire the best. (Exodus 31:1-6; 35:10, 25-26, 30; 36:1, 8)
    2)    Choose workers you respect. (Acts 6:3; 1 Timothy. 3:7)
    3)    Choose those that are loyal. (Exodus 22:28)
    4)    Be certain each understands his job. (2 Kings 12:1-2)
    5)    Dream great dreams for your subordinates. (John 14:12)
    6)    Don’t overstep their authority, recognize the chain of command; even the one below you. (Galatians 2:1-2)
    7)    Give them your trust. (2 Samuel 3:6-13)
    8)    Work hard, be an example. (1 Timothy 4:12; Titus 2:7-8; 1 Peter 5:2-3)

3.    Saul offered the sacrifice

• 1 Samuel 13:5-12 HCSB  The Philistines also gathered to fight against Israel: 3,000 chariots, 6,000 horsemen, and troops as numerous as the sand on the seashore. They went up and camped at Michmash, east of Beth-aven.  (6)  The men of Israel saw that they were in trouble because the troops were in a difficult situation. They hid in caves, thickets, among rocks, and in holes and cisterns.  (7)  Some Hebrews even crossed the Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. Saul, however, was still at Gilgal, and all his troops were gripped with fear.  (8)  He waited seven days for the appointed time that Samuel had set, but Samuel didn't come to Gilgal, and the troops were deserting him.  (9)  So Saul said, "Bring me the burnt offering and the fellowship offerings." Then he offered the burnt offering.  (10)  Just as he finished offering the burnt offering, Samuel arrived. So Saul went out to greet him,  (11)  and Samuel asked, "What have you done?" Saul answered, "When I saw that the troops were deserting me and you didn't come within the appointed days and the Philistines were gathering at Michmash,  (12)  I thought: The Philistines will now descend on me at Gilgal, and I haven't sought the LORD's favor. So I forced myself to offer the burnt offering."
  

What he did wrong:

a.    Took authority that was not his;

b.    Showed a lack of patience – panicked;

c.    Was unable to influence the people, could not get them to rally around him.

What we should learn:

a.    Develop a sense of timing. When to lead is just as important as what to do and where to go. (2 Samuel 5:17-25)

b.    Obey yourself. Follow the same standards you set for others. Outdo them. (Nehemiah 5:14-19; Proverbs 10:9; 1 Corinthians 4:6; 15:9-10; 2 Corinthians 11:21-23)

4.    Saul made rash orders.

• 1 Samuel 14:24-32 HCSB  and the men of Israel were worn out that day, for Saul had placed the troops under an oath: "Cursed is the man who eats food before evening, before I have taken vengeance on my enemies." So none of the troops tasted any food.  (25)  Everyone went into the forest, and there was honey on the ground.  (26)  When the troops entered the forest, they saw the flow of honey, but none of them ate any of it because they feared the oath.  (27)  However, Jonathan had not heard his father make the troops swear the oath. He reached out with the end of the staff he was carrying and dipped it into the honeycomb. When he ate the honey, he had renewed energy.  (28)  Then, one of the troops said, "Your father made the troops solemnly swear, 'Cursed is the man who eats food today,' and the troops are exhausted."  (29)  Jonathan replied, "My father has brought trouble to the land. Just look at how I have renewed energy because I tasted a little honey.  (30)  How much better if the troops had eaten freely today from the plunder they took from their enemies! Then the slaughter of the Philistines would have been much greater."  (31)  The Israelites struck down the Philistines that day from Michmash all the way to Aijalon. Since the Israelites were completely exhausted,  (32)  they rushed to the plunder, took sheep, cattle, and calves, slaughtered them on the ground, and ate meat with the blood still in it.
  

What he did wrong:

a.    Gave foolish, hasty, hotheaded orders;

b.    Others did not listen to him; they listened to Jonathan

What we should learn:

a.    Seek knowledge. (Proverbs 15:14; 8:10; why? Because knowledge is power! 24:5-6; 3:20)

b.    Consult those involved. (1 Samuel 14:4-7)

c.    Listen to their ideas and suggestions: (1 Samuel 25:18-35 esp. v.35)
    1)    Stop everything and give your full attention or make an appointment. Listen carefully. If you don’t agree, withhold your opposition. Don’t present negative thoughts at this time. To do so shows lack of consideration for his right to speak and your responsibility to listen. (Proverbs 11:12; James 1:19)
    2)    Be understanding. Sympathize with his ideas. More than anything a person wants to be heard and considered. This is more important than to have his ideas materialize. (1 Peter 3:8; 2 Samuel 15:1-6)
    3)    Tell him you will think about it and do give it careful consideration. DO this although the answer may be so evident that you have no doubts. After you’ve carefully weighed the suggestion, if the idea is sound, point out why in a manner both kind and firm.  (Proverbs 18:13; 20:25)
    4)    Express appreciation. Remember, you want him to continue coming up with ideas and suggestions. (Philippians 1:3; 1 Thessalonians 1:2; 2 Thessalonians 1:3)

d.    Listen to special requests and desires. (Proverbs 13:12)

e.    Listen to their problems. Don’t be like Job’s friends! (Job 6:14-15) Instead, be like Job (Job 4:3-4)

f.     Listen to objections, complaints and dissenting voices. (Psalm 141:5; Proverbs 27:6)

g.    Don’t seek a title or position. You don’t need it. What you need is the respect and trust of the people. (Matthew 23:1-12)

5.    Saul was willing to kill Jonathan rather than admit his error.

• 1 Samuel 14:43-45 HCSB  Saul commanded him, "Tell me what you did." Jonathan told him, "I tasted a little honey with the end of the staff I was carrying. I am ready to die!"  (44)  Saul declared to him, "May God punish me severely if you do not die, Jonathan!"  (45)  But the people said to Saul, "Must Jonathan die, who accomplished such a great deliverance for Israel? No, as the LORD lives, not a hair of his head will fall to the ground, for he worked with God's help today." So the people rescued Jonathan, and he did not die.
  

What he did wrong:

a.    Showed disloyalty to his own son, willing to kill him;

b.    Gave a rash order that he did not follow through on;

c.    His followers took the lead

What we should learn:

a.    Touch their hearts before you ask for a hand. Win their support. (1 Samuel 18:12-16; Luke 2:51-52; Acts 17:22-23; 1 Timothy 3:2, 7,9; Titus 1:6)

b.    Be a protector. Look out for your own, even if it means taking risks or taking the fall for them. (John 10:11-13, 17; Ezekiel 22:26-31)

c.    A leader’s potential is determined by those closest to him. Make sure that you surround yourself with as strong a group of leaders as you can lead and make sure that they are good at the things that you are not. (2 Samuel 23:8-23; Proverbs 12:15; 15:22)

d.    Remember the names of their loved ones. If you aren’t good at remembering names and faces you’d better learn or as soon as you discreetly can, write down their names and pertinent facts. Also remember favorite foods, drinks, places etc. (Philippians 1:3; Notice how Paul takes care at the end of each epistle to mention their names and the kind things they did for him)

e.    Be consistent and follow through. (Proverbs 24:21-22; James 5:12)

6.    Saul fought on all sides

• 1 Samuel 14:47-48 HCSB  When Saul assumed the kingship over Israel, he fought against all his enemies in every direction: against Moab, the Ammonites, Edom, the kings of Zobah, and the Philistines. Wherever he turned, he caused havoc.  (48)  He fought bravely, defeated the Amalekites, and delivered Israel from the hand of those who plundered them.
  

What he did wrong:

a.    Fought a multi-front war

b.    Took on all comers at once

What we should learn:

a.    Be organized
    1)    1 Kings 5:12-18 Organization for building the temple
    2)    Ezekiel 40:44-46 Organized priests
    3)    Mark 3:13-19 Appointing twelve apostles
    4)    Luke 9:14 Organized for a miracle
    5)    1 Corinthians 12:28-31 Church organization
    6)    1 Corinthians 14:40 Everything should be done decently and in order

b.    Develop your intuition. Evaluate everything with a leadership bias. (Nehemiah 6:1-12)

7.    Saul failed to obey perfectly

• 1 Samuel 15:2-3 HCSB  This is what the LORD of Hosts says: 'I witnessed what the Amalekites did to the Israelites when they opposed them along the way as they were coming out of Egypt.  (3)  Now go and attack the Amalekites and completely destroy everything they have. Do not spare them. Kill men and women, children and infants, oxen and sheep, camels and donkeys.'"
  
• 1 Samuel 15:7-9 HCSB  Then Saul struck down the Amalekites from Havilah all the way to Shur, which is next to Egypt.  (8)  He captured Agag king of Amalek alive, but he completely destroyed all the rest of the people with the sword.  (9)  Saul and the troops spared Agag, and the best of the sheep, cattle, and fatlings, as well as the young rams and the best of everything else. They were not willing to destroy them, but they did destroy all the worthless and unwanted things.
  
• 1 Samuel 15:13-15 HCSB  When Samuel came to him, Saul said, "May the LORD bless you. I have carried out the LORD's instructions."  (14)  Samuel replied, "Then what is this sound of sheep and cattle I hear?"  (15)  Saul answered, "The troops brought them from the Amalekites and spared the best sheep and cattle in order to offer a sacrifice to the LORD your God, but the rest we destroyed."
  
• 1 Samuel 15:22-23 HCSB  Then Samuel said: Does the LORD take pleasure in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the LORD? Look: to obey is better than sacrifice, to pay attention is better than the fat of rams.  (23)  For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and defiance is like wickedness and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king.
  

What he did wrong:

a.    Was building a monument to himself (v.12)

b.    Was greedy for material things and glory (vv.12 and 19)

c.    Lied (v.13)

d.    Was hypocritical (v.15)

e.    Disobeyed direct orders (v.18)

f.     Would not get totally honest (notice he did not mention Agag until pressed about it twice v.20)

g.    Passed the buck (vv.15, 21, 24)

h.    Was disloyal to his people (vv.15, 21, 24)

i.      Would not take complete responsibility (v.24)

j.      Minimized sin and would not submit himself to the time involved in paying the consequences (vv. 24-25)

What we should learn:

a.    Hold to your convictions. (Proverbs 1:10-19; 3:21; Hebrews 2:1)

b.    Teach a way of life. (Nehemiah 8:8, 12)

c.    Build for the ages. A leader’s lasting value is measured by succession. Don’t be one of those flash in the pan, charismatic leaders that can build while they are there by sheer force of personality but whose organization collapses when they move on. (Isaiah 5:18-24; Matthew 6:19-2; 1 Peter 1:24-25)

d.    Allow for mistakes (Psalm 19:12-13; 139:23-24; Acts 14:15 “We too are only men”; 1 Corinthians 3:6-7 Because we’re only human we need one another in ministry like Paul acknowledged that he needed Apollos; Philippians 3:12-14; 1 John 1:8-10)

8.    Saul failed to take responsibility

• 1 Samuel 15:24-25 HCSB  Saul answered Samuel, "I have sinned. I have transgressed the LORD's command and your words. Because I was afraid of the people, I obeyed them.  (25)  Now therefore, please forgive my sin and return with me so I can worship the LORD."
  

What he did wrong:

a.    Instead of leading the people where they needed to go, he feared the people and operated by consensus.

b.    Even while taking responsibility he was blame shifting.

What we should learn:

a.    Take hold of the reins and keep them (Joshua 1:2,6-10)

b.    Do not procrastinate (Ecclesiastes. 11:6; Matthew 25:2-13; Acts 24:25; 2 Corinthians 6:2)

9.    Saul’s worship was hypocritical

• 1 Samuel 15:26-30 HCSB  Samuel replied to Saul, "I will not return with you. Because you rejected the word of the LORD, the LORD has rejected you from being king over Israel."  (27)  When Samuel turned to go, Saul grabbed the hem of his robe, and it tore.  (28)  Samuel said to him, "The LORD has torn the kingship of Israel away from you today and has given it to your neighbor who is better than you.  (29)  Furthermore, the Eternal One of Israel does not lie or change His mind, for He is not man who changes his mind."  (30)  Saul said, "I have sinned. Please honor me now before the elders of my people and before Israel. Come back with me so I can bow and worship the LORD your God."
  

What he did wrong:

a.    Cared more for the appearance of things than the reality of things;

b.    Was hypocritical in his worship

What we should learn:

a.    Do not demand; command. (1 Timothy 4:12 “Don’t let them despise you. How? By being a model of speech, conduct, love, faith and purity.”)

b.    Be a person of integrity (James 5:12). If you say you love God, mean it. If you do not, say so. Even an atheist will gain some measure of credibility for simply being honest and true to his beliefs!

10. Saul didn’t make course corrections

• 1 Samuel 15:31-33 HCSB  Then Samuel went back, following Saul, and Saul bowed down to the LORD.  (32)  Samuel said, "Bring me Agag king of Amalek." Agag came to him trembling, for he thought, "Certainly the bitterness of death has come."  (33)  Samuel declared: As your sword has made women childless, so your mother will be childless among women. Then he hacked Agag to pieces before the LORD at Gilgal.
  

What he did wrong:

a.    Let others do his job

b.    He failed to do what was necessary. It’s one thing to kill a man in the heat of battle. It’s entirely another to execute him in front of a crowd. Yet the task, as loathsome as it may have been, was necessary, as Esther discovered later. Not only Samuel, but also Queen Esther had to clean up Saul’s mess.

What we should learn:

a.    When properly rebuked, accept the consequences  (Job 5:17; Psalm 94:12;  Proverbs 3:11; Hebrews 12:5-11)

b.    When shown our error, accept the responsibility of putting it right (Luke 19:8)

11. Rather than repent Saul separated himself from God

• 1 Samuel 15:34-35 HCSB  Samuel went to Ramah, and Saul went up to his home in Gibeah of Saul.  (35)  Even to the day of his death, Samuel never again visited Saul. Samuel mourned for Saul, and the LORD regretted He had made Saul king over Israel.
  

What he did wrong:

a.    Was unrepentant; made no efforts to regain his relationship with God.

b.    He did what came easy, separated himself from the one who could get him reconciled to God.

c.    Failed to heed the principle that we should value constructive criticism that Solomon later penned for us.  

What we should learn:

a.    Aim for perfection but don’t be shattered when you don’t attain it. Be realistic. (Ecclesiastes 7:20; Genesis 17:1; Deuteronomy. 5:32; 18:13; Jos. 23:6; Matthew 5:48; 2 Corinthians 7:1; 13:11)

b.    Continue to improve yourself and expand your work. (James. 1:4; But How? Ephesians 4:11; Hebrews 6:1)

c.    Do everything well; to the best of your ability. (2 Chronicles 31:21; Ecclesiastes 9:10; Colossians 3:23)

d.    When you fall short, value constructive criticism and draw near to those who can offer the best.

12. Saul became possessed of an evil spirit

• 1 Samuel 16:14-17 HCSB  Now the Spirit of the LORD had left Saul, and an evil spirit from the LORD began to torment him,  (15)  so Saul's servants said to him, "You see that an evil spirit from God is tormenting you.  (16)  Let our lord command your servants here in your presence to look for someone who knows how to play the harp. Whenever the evil spirit from God troubles you, that person can play the harp, and you will feel better."  (17)  Then Saul commanded his servants, "Find me someone who plays well and bring him to me."
  

What he did wrong:

a.    Loved only those who could service his needs;

b.    Had to have his blessings imposed upon him from outside.

What we should learn:

a.    Seek direction through a time of quiet meditation.

What?
1.   Introspection (Psalm 4:4)
2.   Reflection (Psalm 16:7)
3.   Silently seeking God (Psalm 62:1; Zephaniah 1:7; Zechariah 2:13)
4.   Thanksgiving (Psalm 77:10-12; 143:5)
5.   Think of what God has done (Ecclesiastes 7:13)
6.   Ponder profound events (Luke 2:19)
7.   Fix thoughts on Christ (Hebrew 3:1)
8.   Meditate about message (1 John 2:24)
9.   From the heart (Psalm 19:14)

When?
1.    Daily (Joshua 1:8)
2.    Daybreak solitude (Luke 4:42)
3.    Constant (Psalm 1:2)
4.    Nightlong (Psalm 63:6)
5.    All day long Psalm (119:97)

Where?
1.    In the temple (Psalm 48:9)
2.    Outdoors (Ezekiel 3:22-23)
3.    Prayer closet (Matthew 6:5-6)

Why?
1.    Jesus withdrew to pray (Luke 5:16)
2.    Reward of careful reflection (2 Timothy 2:7)
3.    Gives Bible insight (Psalm 119:18)

b.    Fill their needs. (Matthew 20:26-28; James 2:17-18; 1 Peter 2:12)

c.    Try to always give more than you receive. (Matthew 5:44-42; Acts 20:35)

d.    Be pleasant to be around. (Proverbs 15:15; Ecclesiastes 8:15; 11:10; 1 Corinthians 16:18; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Philippians 2:14; 4:8-9; Keys to positive attitude 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; 2 Timothy 2:24)

13. Saul was stopped by Goliath

• 1 Samuel 17:10-11 HCSB  Then the Philistine said, "I defy the ranks of Israel today. Send me a man so we can fight each other!"  (11)  When Saul and all Israel heard these words from the Philistine, they lost their courage and were terrified.
  

What he did wrong:

a.    Was unwilling to risk his life for his people;

b.    Lacked faith;

c.    Felt he could pay others to do the job he should be doing.

What we should learn:

a.    A leader accepts the responsibilities that go with the position. (Nehemiah 1:11 He takes responsibility for the rebuilding of Jerusalem; Nehemiah 2:18 took responsibility to lead the people; 4:13 organized their defense, protected them; 4:23 joined physically in the work; 5:6-7 brought justice to the people; 5:14-19 did not take the rewards he was due)

b.    Try to get a momentum going that comes from a series of victories. Follow through! (Joshua 8:26; 10:29-43)

c.    You must not be easily stopped. (1 Corinthians 4:11-13; 9:24-27)

d.    Be willing to sacrifice for the cause. You must be willing to give up in order to go up. (1 Corinthians 9:13-15)

e.    Learn to turn problems into opportunities. (Jeremiah 33:10-11 thank God in adverse circumstances; Philippians 1:12 problems enhance progress; James 1:2-4, 12 problems can mature you if handled correctly)

     In contrast to Saul’s terrible example, Joshua’s life demonstrates how humility, long service and a willingness to worship alone should characterize leaders.

• Deuteronomy 3:28 HCSB  But commission Joshua and encourage and strengthen him, for he will cross over ahead of the people and enable them to inherit this land that you will see.'
  
• Deuteronomy 31:14-15, 23 HCSB  The LORD said to Moses, "The time of your death is now approaching. Call Joshua and present yourselves at the tent of meeting, so that I may commission him." When Moses and Joshua went and presented themselves at the tent of meeting,  (15)  the LORD appeared at the tent in a pillar of cloud, and the cloud stood at the entrance to the tent… (23)  The LORD commissioned Joshua son of Nun, "Be strong and courageous, for you will bring the Israelites into the land I swore to them, and I will be with you."

Peshat – The facts of the matter

Born a slave during the final years of the Egyptian captivity, Joshua became a great soldier and statesman of the Jews. He was born to the son of Nun in the tribe of Ephraim  and called originally Oshea which means "help" (Numbers 13:8).

Later, Moses changed his name to Joshua (Numbers 13:16), meaning "savior". Joshua in the Hebrew is the same Jesus’ name does in the Greek (Hebrews 4:8).

Joshua is first mentioned as a victorious commander of the Jews against the Amalekites at Rephidim (Exodus 17:13)  but most of the credit went to Moses for simply holding his arms up. And Moses had help doing that!

In fact, Joshua began and spent most of his career in Moses’ shadow (Numbers 11:28; cf. Exodus 24:13, Joshua 1:1). He accompanied Moses to the edge of Mt Sinai (Exodus 24:13), waited for 40 days for his return.

However, as a result of his training, he was placed by Moses in charge of the Tabernacle of meeting (Exodus 33:7-11).

Moses also chose Joshua to be one of 12 spies who tried to determine the military situation before the people of Israel entered the Promised Land. In spite of his and fellow-spy Caleb’s faith, the people balked and he was doomed to wander the wilderness with them through no fault of his own.

It was 40 years before Joshua took command and this was only when Moses died (Deuteronomy 31:14-16).

It was at this point that the Lord began speaking directly to Joshua (Joshua 1:1-9) as he took command at 85 years of age. Joshua led the children of Israel across the Jordan dryshod (Joshua 3). Having erected a memorial, Joshua took Jericho, the walls of which fell outwards at the sound of a trumpet blast.

Shortly thereafter, with sin in the camp, he was defeated at Ai but went on to conquer the land of Canaan although he did not take every city (Joshua 11:23; 13:1).

He was deceived by the Gibeonites (Joshua 9), but was eventually able to pacify the land and divide it among his people (Joshua 14-21).

Having encouraged Israel to trust in the Lord, Joshua died at the age of 110  and was buried at Timnath-serah (Joshua 24:29).

Derashot – Life Applications for Leaders

1. It was Joshua’s humility and willingness to learn from others that eventually promoted him. Joshua was humble enough to recognize that he did not have Moses’ natural talent. Because he was not too important for God to use, God could promote him (Joshua 3:7; 4:14).
2. He was a person of strong faith and faithful in his calling. Joshua was quick to worship his commander in chief (Joshua 5:13-15).
3. He was obedient. He received orders as to how to capture the enemy's stronghold (Joshua 6:2-5) and Joshua obeyed God emphatically, even though the conquest of Jericho looked ridiculous (Joshua 6).
4. He identified with his people. He cried in repentance for the nation at Ai though he had personally done nothing wrong. (Joshua 7:6-9)
5. He placed worship over advancement. At the foot of Mt Ebal, he put worship before further conquest (Joshua 8:30-35).
6. He concentrated his life on the Word of God (Joshua 1:8-18).
7. He developed and practiced sound leadership skills. Joshua displayed sound military leadership by taking Ai and Bethel, as this cut the land of Canaan in two, allowing him to campaign separately against kings to the south and north.
8. He maintained sound judgment and fairness. He used sound judgment in dividing up the land between the tribes. He did not allow consideration to wealth, power or influence to affect his decisions.

Sod – Spiritual Applications for Leaders

1. Humility is a prerequisite to good leadership. (1 Timothy 3:6; Titus 1:6)
2. In order to lead you must be willing to learn. (1 Peter 5:5)
3. Be patient. God will promote in His good time. (1 Peter 5:6)
4. Faithfulness in small things is necessary before you can be trusted with great power. (Matthew 25:21, 23)
5. Knowledge of God's Word and its application to problems of life ensure success. (Psalm 119:9)
6. Sin is disastrous to a Christian life. (1 John 1:6-7) A good leader realizes that it is disastrous even when it is not your own.
7. Sin must be dealt with in a very proactive manner if success is to be obtained. (1 John 1:9)
8. Even mature believers can be deceived. (Gibeonites) (Matthew 24:24)
9. Yahweh Yireh provides in the problems of life. (Psalm 23:1; James 1:5)
10. A mature Christian will use his common sense and sound judgment in leadership. (Proverbs 24:5-6)

8:15 Because of me (Wisdom), kings reign, and rulers make just laws. 16Rulers lead with my help, and nobles make righteous judgments. 

• Leadership must be based on God’s revealed wisdom. 
  
• Leadership entails making righteous judgments.
  

10:17 People who accept correction are on the pathway to life, but those who ignore it will lead others astray. 

• To be an effective leader you must be willing to accept correction.
  

11:14 Without wise leadership, a nation falls; with many counselors, there is safety. 

• Wise leadership is necessary for an organization to succeed. 
  
• Wise leadership includes the input of many wise counselors.
  

12:24 Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave. 

• The path to leadership is paved with hard work. You must be willing to work harder than anyone else.
  

13:17 An unreliable messenger stumbles into trouble, but a reliable messenger brings healing. 

• You must not use unreliable people. If you do, you’ll get more trouble than benefit.
  
• They "stumble into trouble". They won't do it on purpose. They'll mean well. But it won't matter. Just because they're likable doesn't mean they're usable. 

14:28 A growing population is a king’s glory; a dwindling nation is his doom. 

• A growing organization can be used as a measure of the success or failure of your leadership. Some people will say "it's not the numbers that count, it's the quality of the people." That's not necessarily true. We are to yield "much" fruit, not just "high quality" fruit. 
  

14:34 Godliness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people. 

• You must encourage godliness in your people. That means honesty, justice, honor, keeping our word, etc.
  

14:35 A king rejoices in servants who know what they are doing; he is angry with those who cause trouble. 

• You need to look for competent people and promote them. 
  
• You need to develop and train your people so that the overall quality and excellence improves with time. 
  
• You need to discourage incompetence and trouble making.
  

16:10 The king speaks with divine wisdom; he must never judge unfairly. 

• If you speak, it must not be with the wisdom or philosophies of men, but of God. 
  
• Be known for judging fairly.
  

16:12 A king despises wrongdoing, for his rule depends on his justice. 

• Develop a distaste for wrongdoing both in yourself and in your people. Particularly in an all-volunteer organization like a church will leadership be based on justice.
  

16:13 The king is pleased with righteous lips; he loves those who speak honestly. 

• Find those who speak the truth with compassion and elevate them. 
  
• Keep honest people around you.
  

16:14 The anger of the king is a deadly threat; the wise do what they can to appease it. 

• We are often taught that there is no place for anger in the Way. But the Bible doesn’t actually say that. It says “Be slow to anger” not “do not be angry”. It says “do not let the sun go down on your wrath”. In other words DO something about it. Don’t just stew on it. We should be angry at what angers God. God gets angry at injustice. Jesus got angry at hypocrisy. A mark of a good leader is that he is slow to anger, but when he does it’s for the right reason and he doesn’t just stew on it – he goes out and does something about it.
  

16:15 When the king smiles, there is life; his favor refreshes like a gentle rain. 

• On the other end of the spectrum, leadership is not just about getting angry. You must also bless and encourage the efforts of those who are really trying. You should be known as a cheerleader. Your gratitude and appreciation should be legendary.
  

16:21 The wise are known for their understanding, and instruction is appreciated if it's well presented. 

• Make sure you study things deeply before you speak about them. Develop a reputation for having a good grasp of your subject. Do your best to make the best presentations and to have the highest quality instruction you can get.
  

16:26 It is good for workers to have an appetite; an empty stomach drives them on. 

• How hungry are you for it? How hungry are your people? Keep the dream alive.
  

17:7 Eloquent speech is not fitting for a fool; even less are lies fitting for a ruler. 

• Leadership is primarily based on integrity. If you lie to your people, they will never trust you. If they cannot trust you, they will never follow you.
  

17:11 Evil people seek rebellion, but they will be severely punished. 

• Rebels must be punished. Notice that it’s not people who think differently than you do. It’s evil people who are seeking ways and means to rebel.
  

17:13 If you repay evil for good, evil will never leave your house. 

• You must reward service and punish disservice. If you start being treacherous and repaying favors with a stab in the back, you will lose your leadership.
  

17:15 The Lord despises those who acquit the guilty and condemn the innocent. 

• You will never have the Lord’s blessing if you don’t judge His people rightly.
  

17:16 It is senseless to pay tuition to educate a fool who has no heart for wisdom. 

• Don’t waste time and resources on someone who has no desire to change, grow, or improve.
  

17:26 It is wrong to fine the godly for being good or to punish nobles for being honest! 

• If your people do what’s right, you must reward them; even if their doing right cost your organization something. 
  
• If your leaders tell you the truth, you must reward them. Even if the truth hurts.
  

17:28 Even fools are thought to be wise when they keep silent; when they keep their mouths shut, they seem intelligent. 

• Practice as much silence as you can. It is impossible to lead silently but don’t babble on.
  

18:3 When the wicked arrive, contempt, shame, and disgrace are sure to follow. 

• You must make sure that while you may serve the wicked and seek to turn them from their wickedness, the wicked must not be part of the leadership.
  

18:5 It is wrong for a judge to favor the guilty or condemn the innocent. 

• Be a righteous judge! Don’t take wealth, power, or friendship into account. Call each judgment as you see it.
  

18:15 Intelligent people are always open to new ideas. In fact, they look for them. 

• Remain open to new ideas. Read. Go visit other groups. See how they do things. You can’t substantially change your looks, but you can always borrow brains. If it works, do it. If it doesn’t, get rid of it.
  

18:16 Giving a gift works wonders; it may bring you before important people! 

• You might need to offer a service before you get someone to help you. Be willing to be the first one to give. By doing so you might get them to want to ally with you.
  

19:2 Zeal without knowledge is not good; a person who moves too quickly may go the wrong way. 

• Don’t jump the gun. Don’t get so excited that you move before you have all the facts and you have all your people in place. Notice that it doesn’t say “don’t move” however. It simply says don’t move too quickly.
  

19:6 Many beg favors from a prince; everyone is the friend of a person who gives gifts! 

• Realize that part of being a leader is people seeking your favor. Watch out that you don’t give it out too freely. Be careful of fawning flatterers. Be generous with service, help, and encouragement, though. It will make more people want to be your friend.
  
• Also, if you are finding yourself alone, perhaps it is because you're too stingy with your resources. Serve them, then reach for their hand. 
  

19:10 It isn’t right for a fool to live in luxury or for a slave to rule over princes! 

• Make sure the chain of command is followed. Don’t let unproven people jump the chain of command.
  

19:12 The king’s anger is like a lion’s roar, but his favor is like dew on the grass.

• Balance the two. This is like Romans 12:9.
  

19:21 You can make many plans, but the Lord’s purpose will prevail. 

• Realize the limitations of your human understanding. Make sure that what you are doing fits in with the Lord’s will.
  

20:2 The king’s fury is like a lion’s roar; to rouse his anger is to risk your life. 

• Make sure that your people know better than to raise your ire. Don’t be a milk toast!
  

20:8 When a king judges, he carefully weighs all the evidence, distinguishing the bad from the good. 

• Seek out all the evidence before rendering judgment. Use God’s standards, not your own.
  

20:10 The Lord despises double standards of every kind. 

• Everyone – absolutely everyone - gets treated the same way.
  

20:14 The buyer haggles over the price, saying, “It’s worthless,” then brags about getting a bargain! 

• Realize when you are in negotiations with others that they will always fudge the information to their favor. It is a natural human tendency that can happen even without them realizing it. Take that into account in your planning.
  

20:18 Plans succeed through good counsel; don’t go to war without the advice of others. 

• Find some people that you trust; honest people; people who will tell you like it is; people who have been successful in the appropriate field; and listen to them. In the end you must make the decision but if possible, don’t make it until you get their input.
  

20:26 A wise king finds the wicked, lays them out like wheat, then runs the crushing wheel over them. 

• Deliberate obtuseness and incompetence, divisiveness and self-seeking must not be tolerated.
  

20:28 Unfailing love and faithfulness protect the king; his throne is made secure through love. 

• Make sure your people know that you love them. Be faithful to them. Be there for them.
  

21:1 The king’s heart is like a stream of water directed by the Lord; he turns it wherever he pleases. 

• Make sure this is the truth about you. Make sure that the Lord can turn you easily. Don’t stiffen under his hand.
  

21:5 Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty. 

• You just can’t beat the basics: plan your work then work your plan. Don’t be tempted to use shortcuts and half measures. If it’s worth doing it’s worth doing right. Be patient in developing your ministry. Anything worthwhile will take a while to build. 
  

21:11 A simpleton can learn only by seeing mockers punished; a wise person learns from instruction. 

• Don’t be a simpleton who has to wait until he starts seeing the effects of bad decisions before he moves. Listen to wise people who can predict future costs or benefits.
  
• Punish mockers, those who laugh at the rules, or treat the organizations values lightly and maybe - just maybe - you'll save some simpletons from the ax. 
  

21:18 Sometimes the wicked are punished to save the godly, and the treacherous for the upright. 

• Sometimes you’re just going to have to get rid of someone. You can’t let yourself get so attached to a person that you’re not willing to let them go when they are behaving badly. If you keep them, you may lose all the good ones. Be ready to make the hard decisions no one else wants to make.
  

21:28 A false witness will be cut off, but an attentive witness will be allowed to speak. 

• In a disagreement listen to those who have consistently shown themselves to be attentive to the circumstances and understood the ramifications. If you determine that someone does not have that ability, cut their ramblings off. Don’t waste valuable time on their musings. They are not only wasting your time but everyone else’s too.
  

22:11 Anyone who loves a pure heart and gracious speech is the king’s friend. 

• Who should you seek out and promote? Those with pure hearts and gracious speech. The combination of the proper motives with the ability to communicate truth effectively simply can’t be beat.
  

22:29 Do you see any truly competent workers? They will serve kings rather than ordinary people. 

• Find the competent and put them to work. 
  
• On the other hand, find the incompetent and train them if possible and fire them if not.
  

23:1-3 When dining with a ruler, pay attention to what is put before you. 2 If you are a big eater, put a knife to your throat, 3 and don’t desire all the delicacies—deception may be involved. 

• Don’t let your success go to your head. 
  
• Don’t get trapped in the benefits of victory. 
  
• When you are meeting with other leaders, pay attention. Listen. Learn. Remember that they may not all love you.
  

23:6-8 Don’t eat with people who are stingy; don’t desire their delicacies. 7 “Eat and drink,” they say, but they don’t mean it. They are always thinking about how much it costs. 8 You will vomit up the delicious food they serve, and you will have to take back your words of appreciation for their “kindness.” 

• If it comes with strings, don’t accept it.
  

24:3-4 A house is built by wisdom and becomes strong through good sense. 4 Through knowledge its rooms are filled with all sorts of precious riches and valuables. 

• Your organization will only be built through wisdom. You might enjoy temporary success without it but your “house” will fall sooner than you like. Practice common sense, not just book learning. Listen to the old dogs who have been at it for a while. You might learn something from them that you couldn’t have from school.
  

24:5-6 A wise man is mightier than a strong man, and a man of knowledge is more powerful than a strong man. 6 So don’t go to war without wise guidance; victory depends on having many counselors. 

• Wisdom, knowledge, wise guidance, multiple counselors…all these trump charisma and power any day. Charisma can trip over bad character and not everyone has it anyway. Power is as often as not a trick of circumstances and politics. It ebbs and wanes with popularity. Wisdom, knowledge, wise guidance, and multiple counselors...these only require humility, patience, and self-discipline.
  

24:7 Wisdom is too much for a fool. When the leaders gather, the fool has nothing to say. 

• If you gather together with other leaders, note those who have nothing to contribute and label them in your mind for future reference. We’re not talking about the “strong silent types.” We’re talking about those who have nothing valuable to say.
  

24:10 If you fail under pressure, your strength is not very great. 

• It’s precisely for those tough times that they pay you the big bucks. Anybody can lead when everything is going smoothly. A mark of a true leader is that he can bring his people through the tough times.
  

24: 11-12 Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die. 12 Don’t try to avoid responsibility by saying you didn’t know about it. For God knows all hearts, and he sees you. He keeps watch over your soul, and he knows you knew! And he will judge all people according to what they have done. 

• Make sure that you and your people remember that in the end it’s all about justice. If you sell soap, make sure that somewhere along the line it makes a difference in regards to justice. If you sell weapons, make sure it’s to the right people. If your organization is causing harm, then you had better be the first one to call attention to it and you had better do something about it. Remember that your boss reads minds!
  

24:17-18 Do not rejoice when your enemies fall into trouble. Don’t be happy when they stumble. 18 For the Lord will be displeased with you and will turn his anger away from them. 

• Be genuinely concerned for everyone – even the fools you have to fire. Make sure that you treat even your enemies with respect. They are far more likely to capitulate to you and cooperate with you if you treat them well.
  

24:21-22 My child, fear the Lord and the king, and don’t associate with rebels. 22 For you will go down with them to sudden disaster. Who knows where the punishment from the Lord and the king will end? 

• If hang out with pigs, don’t get upset when you get dirty. If you go along with rebels, don’t whine when you get caught up in the consequences of their sin.
  

24:27 Develop your business first before building your house. 

• Make sure your organization is strong and safe. If you start enjoying the benefits too soon, you may lose both your source of income and your benefits both!
  

25:2It is God’s privilege to conceal things and the king’s privilege to discover them. 

• Make discovering something about God a daily joy. Remember that it is a privilege to serve Him. He could always use the next nobody.
  

25:3 No one can discover the height of heaven, the depth of the earth, or all that goes on in the king’s mind! 

• Don’t babble! Don’t let everyone in on all your plans. Keep a certain amount of knowledge in reserve. Give your people everything they need in order to function well, but not more than they need. If you commit yourself to something, and then as things progress you change your mind, you will look wishy washy. They might even interpret it as though you lied!
  

25:4 Remove the dross from silver, and the sterling will be ready for the silversmith. 5Remove the wicked from the king’s court, and his reign will be made secure by justice. 

• Remove those that are wicked from leadership. They are a weakness in your organization. If your group fails, it will be right where that wicked person is serving! He or she is the weak link!
  

25:6-7 Don’t demand an audience with the king or push for a place among the great. 7 It is better to wait for an invitation than to be sent to the end of the line, publicly disgraced! 

• Stay humble! Let them invite you. Don’t push yourself on other leaders. Don’t offer courses on successful leadership. Let them ask you.
  

25:12 Valid criticism is as treasured by the one who heeds it as jewelry made from finest gold. 

• Let those who have given you valid and useful criticism know how much you appreciate it. Be willing to be wrong. Your willingness to be wrong will make you more approachable. It will make them trust your decisions. It will also lead to more, better advice in the future. Wise people, knowledgeable people, those with understanding will gravitate to your organization.
  

25:15 Patience can persuade a prince, and soft speech can crush strong opposition. 

• Walk softly and carry a big stick. Be willing to take the time necessary to get the job done.
  

25:19 Putting confidence in an unreliable person is like chewing with a toothache or walking on a broken foot. 

• Avoid as much pain as possible by not using unreliable people. If they have started and stopped in the past, if they have shown a lack of leadership ability, or an intractable spirit – QUIT USING THEM!
  

26:6 Trusting a fool to convey a message is as foolish as cutting off one’s feet or drinking poison! 

• Make sure that your people do not add to information or speak for you.
  

26:8 Honoring a fool is as foolish as tying a stone to a slingshot. 

• If you elevate a fool simply because he’s popular or the boss’ kid or some other ridiculous reason, you might as well go ahead and get out the broom. There will soon be a mess to clean up.
  

26:10 An employer who hires a fool or a bystander is like an archer who shoots recklessly. 

• Don’t hire fools and don’t hire someone you don’t know. For all you know he’s a fool too! You’re playing Russian roulette with your people.
  

27:1 Don’t brag about tomorrow, since you don’t know what the day will bring. 

• Don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched. If you speak too confidently about future growth and then for unforeseen reasons it doesn’t happen, you will lose a lot of trust.
  

27:8 A person who strays from home is like a bird that strays from its nest. 

• Know when you are well-off. Don’t hop from thing to thing like a bird hopping from branch to branch. Be secure in your knowledge. Be satisfied with whatever condition God has given you. Work on it to do it the best you can but don’t be constantly seeking out new things without finishing what you are presently doing. Otherwise you’ll never be “home”.
  

27:18 Workers who tend a fig tree are allowed to eat its fruit. In the same way, workers who protect their employer’s interests will be rewarded. 

• If you serve your boss’ interests he’ll drag you up the food chain as he gets promoted. Make sure that you reward those who serve your interests in a similar manner.
  

27:21 Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but a person is tested by being praised. 

• We will soon know what kind of person you are by how much attention you pay to the praise and flattery.
  

27:22 You cannot separate fools from their foolishness, even though you grind them like grain with mortar and pestle. 

• Once you recognize that a person is a fool, quit throwing good money after bad. Don’t waste valuable time and resources on him when there are many others who are willing to change, grow, and serve. Use that time on them instead.
  

28:2 When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers, but a man of understanding and knowledge maintains order. NIV 

• This works a couple of different ways. First, it is a sign of moral rot and rebellion, some deep seated problems, when an organization has gone through many leaders. 
  
• Second, a group with too many chiefs will soon become rebellious. If you want to be that leader who is known for understanding and knowledge, then maintain order. Do not tolerate chaos and confusion.
  

28:12 When the godly succeed, everyone is glad. When the wicked take charge, people go into hiding. 

• You want your organization to succeed? You want it to grow? Then put the godly in charge and fire the wicked.
  

28:13 People who cover over their sins will not prosper. But if they confess and forsake them, they will receive mercy. 

• Be quick to admit your faults and mistakes. Confess and forsake them as soon as you realize them. On the other hand, if you have someone who refuses to admit their mistakes and try to fix them; if they try instead to cover them up, do not let them prosper.
  

28:15 A wicked ruler is as dangerous to the poor as a lion or bear attacking them. 

• If your organization is harmful to the poor it says you are wicked. 
  
• Bad leadership can hurt the poor just as badly as anything else. 
  

28:16 Only a stupid prince will oppress his people, but a king will have a long reign if he hates dishonesty and bribes. 

• You’d be stupid to grind your people down. Your success is intimately tied to theirs! 
  
• Don’t tolerate dishonesty. Don’t allow kickbacks, no matter what form they take.
  

28:28 When the wicked take charge, people hide. When the wicked meet disaster, the godly multiply. 

• If you reward wickedness with leadership, your organization will die. But if your people see that justice is done, they will tell others and your group will grow!
  

29:1 Whoever stubbornly refuses to accept criticism will suddenly be broken beyond repair. 

• On one hand, this is a warning to you – the leader. Don’t be pig headed when you are obviously wrong. 
  

29:2 When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan. 

• Everyone will be happier if you put the godly in charge. They will look after their people, they will be humble, they will deal with the whole person instead of just looking at them as cogs in the machine, and they will treat their people fairly. If you let the wicked take charge, you will soon start losing people.
  

29:4 A just king gives stability to his nation, but one who demands bribes destroys it. 

• Make sure you do what’s right because it’s right – not because of the reward. Don’t fall into the relativism of the ends justifying the means. True stability is predicated on this.
  

29:12 If a ruler honors liars, all his advisers will be wicked. 

• If you let yourself start listening to the flatteries of liars who only tell you what you want to hear, then soon all your advisers will be wicked. Your leadership will effectively be over. 
  
• You don’t want to surround yourself with people who are constantly critical – that’s not what it’s saying. The criticism must be valid.
  

29:14 A king who is fair to the poor will have a long reign. 

• Fairness and justice equals longevity as a leader.
  

29:16 When the wicked are in authority, sin increases. But the godly will live to see the tyrant’s downfall. 

• Is sin increasing in your group? Take a second look at your leadership. But if you are getting discouraged because it seems the odds are stacked against you, be assured that God is on your side and He will let you see the downfall of the wicked.
  

29:18 When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild. But whoever obeys the law is happy. 

• When people stubbornly refuse to accept the enlightenment of the Lord, they darken their own minds and they are soon doing things you would not have imagined them capable of. 
  
• True happiness will only be achieved when you and your people are doing the will of God.
  

29:26 Many seek the ruler’s favor, but justice comes from the Lord. 

• Many will look to you as an arbiter. They will seek justice at your hand. But you must make sure that the Lord is getting the glory. Any wisdom you dispense must be credited to God. 
  
• Foolishness however is another matter. You get full credit for that.
  

30:29-31 There are three stately monarchs on the earth—no, four: 30 the lion, king of animals, who won’t turn aside for anything, 31 the strutting rooster, the male goat, a king as he leads his army. 

• You will be tempted to look upon your mighty works and begin strutting. Don’t fall for it! Remember what happened to Nebuchadnezzar.
  

31:1-3 These are the sayings of King Lemuel, an oracle that his mother taught him. 2O my son, O son of my womb, O son of my promises, 3do not spend your strength on women, on those who ruin kings. 

• People are attracted to success and power. Remember that you can lose it all – years of work and good leadership – over one dalliance. Sex is great – but not that great.
  

31:4-7 And it is not for kings, O Lemuel, to guzzle wine. Rulers should not crave liquor. 5For if they drink, they may forget their duties and be unable to give justice to those who are oppressed. 6 Liquor is for the dying, and wine for those in deep depression. 7Let them drink to forget their poverty and remember their troubles no more. 

• Don’t let anything besides God have mastery over you. Those weaknesses are for “lesser mortals.” Exercise some self respect and stay away from anything that may cause you to stumble and lose the Lord’s blessing. You can’t afford it.