Leadership philosphy: Bible counsels effective leadership principles
Many people view the Bible as a simple religious book. Because of skewed thinking, many overlook what the Bible has to say concerning leadership philosophy.One might not think that the Bible has any leadership application. The information contained in the Bible is more than just detailing the formation of the Christian congregation. The Bible also chronicles the history of the Jews. That is why many consider the Bible to be a book for theologians and people who want to be Christians. Since the last words were written about two thousand years ago, a person might conclude that if the Bible had any counsel, it would be antiquated or outdated. However, the sagacious advice of the Bible is beneficial for anyone who wishes to attain a position of leadership. For example, the Bible says that people should let the "word Yes mean Yes, YOUR No, No" (Matthew 5:37). Following this wise suggestion, a leader would not say one thing, when he means another. Too, a leader would not say something if he had no intention of keeping his end of the bargain. A leader has to be sincere and mean what he says. When he talks, people must to be able to put faith in what he is saying. For instance, a manager might tell his reports that if they meet their quota; everyone will get a bonus in his or her paycheck in the following week. If they meet their quota, it is the manager's responsibility to make sure everyone gets the bonus he promised to them. If he does not deliver, he will undermine his own leadership.
Good communication is also crucial to effectual leadership. The Bible says that when "there is no skillful direction, the people fall; but there is salvation in the multitude of counselors" (Solomon, Proverbs 14:11). The Bible also admonishes "those consulting together there is wisdom" (Solomon, Proverbs 13:10). If a leader does not provide his followers with clear guidelines as to his expectations, there is no way that they can fully accomplish the job to his satisfaction. Poor communication can result in frustration and time wasted. If people feel as if they are wasting their time, the overall project will probably not succeed. On the other hand, a leader should organize team meetings to convey his objectives and receive input from the team. Constant communication will be beneficial to all concerned. Everyone will know what he or she has to do. That leads to increased productivity, which leads to team success.
In Matthew 6:2, Jesus says that people should not blow their own "trumpet". Granted, there are times when it is beneficial for a person to make reference to some good thing he has done. However, a person would not want to consistently brag about his own accomplishments. A braggart is only interested in letting others know what he has done. It is selfish for a person to be solely interested in talking about his own accomplishments. If people sense the selfishness in the person that is supposed to be leading them, they probably will not trust that person's leadership. The people might second-guess his directives, assuming he has ulterior motives.Instead of being braggadocios, a leader would want to be modest.
In this day and age, companies do not rely on divine appointment to fill positions of leadership. However, they are encouraging employees to look for ways to develop and demonstrate leadership skills. The qualities mutual among successful leaders of Biblical times would benefit anyone who desires leadership today. Various qualities included being unselfish, modest, humble, trustworthy, and honorable. For example, Moses unselfishly gave up a wealthy lifestyle for the greater good of leading the people out of slavery (Paul, Hebrews 11:24,25). Saul was selected to reign because of his modesty (Samuel, 1Samuel 9:22-10:16). David proved that he was trustworthy enough to care for his sheep; consequently, God entrusted him to lead the nation of Israel (David, Psalms 78:70, 71). Last but not least, Jesus demonstrated impeccable morals when he chose to die an ignominious death for the benefit of countless billions of people (John, 3:16).
An effective leader does not have to be born. Nor does an effective leader have to be perfect. The Bible provides good examples of people who have learned the qualities needed for leadership. Other Biblical examples proved what is not desirable in a leader. By imitating the Bible's good examples and following Bible principles, a person can develop the proper attitude towards dealing with others and towards work. That will enhance leadership ability. In turn, the person will find success if he holds true to the teachings of the Bible.