Identify God's leaders today?
How can we discern God's chosen leaders in our communities today?

Witnessing God’s Choice in 1 Samuel 10:24

“Samuel said to all the people, ‘Do you see the one the LORD has chosen? Indeed, there is no one like him among all the people.’ Then the people shouted and said, ‘Long live the king!’”


Key Observations From the Verse

• Choice originates with the LORD—leadership is His prerogative

• The selection becomes visible: “Do you see…?”

• God equips uniquely: “no one like him”

• The community affirms what God has revealed


Scriptural Principles for Discerning Leaders Today

• God looks at the heart, not appearance (1 Samuel 16:7)

• Leaders must fear God, be trustworthy, hate dishonest gain (Exodus 18:21)

• Spiritual oversight requires blameless character (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:6-9)

• Wisdom from above is “pure… peaceable… full of mercy” (James 3:17)

• The Spirit’s fruit must be evident (Galatians 5:22-23)

• A leader after God’s heart fulfills His will (Acts 13:22)


Attributes That Mark God-Chosen Leaders

• Reverence for God and His Word

• Humble, servant-hearted posture (Mark 10:43-45)

• Evident filling and gifting of the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:3)

• Consistent moral integrity—public and private

• Doctrinal soundness and ability to teach truth (Titus 1:9)

• Proven faithfulness in small responsibilities (Luke 16:10)


Practical Steps for Discernment in the Community

• Saturate the process in Scripture—measure candidates by biblical qualifications

• Pray earnestly for wisdom and unity (James 1:5)

• Observe long-term fruit, not momentary impressions

• Listen to testimonies of those who know the person best

• Weigh motives: is there a pattern of self-promotion or self-sacrifice?

• Seek collective confirmation—God often speaks through the gathered body


Guarding Against False Criteria

• Charisma without character

• Popularity without obedience

• Talent without spiritual maturity

• Ambition fueled by personal gain instead of sacrificial love


Living Out the Lesson

Trust the Lord’s sovereignty as Samuel did. Use His unchanging Word and the Spirit’s guidance to recognize leaders who reflect His heart. Support those He raises up, hold them accountable, and remain confident that He still points to individuals and says, “Do you see the one the LORD has chosen?”

How does 1 Samuel 10:24 connect to Romans 13:1 about authority?
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