What qualities should we seek in leaders, based on 1 Samuel 10:23? The Passage “So they ran and brought him out, and as he stood among the people, he was a head taller than any of the others.” Why This Verse Matters for Leadership Saul’s emergence from hiding to stand “among the people” gives a snapshot of the traits God highlights when He raises a leader. His stature is noted, but the scene also points to character and calling. From this single verse—read in the flow of the chapter—we can draw several qualities worth pursuing in anyone who leads God’s people. Key Qualities to Seek in Leaders • God-appointed, not self-appointed – 1 Samuel 10:24 reminds the crowd, “Do you see the man the LORD has chosen?” – Romans 13:1 underscores that “there is no authority except that which is from God.” – A leader should carry the settled conviction that the role is a stewardship from the Lord, not a personal platform. • Willing to step forward when called – Saul was hiding (10:22), yet when summoned he came. Readiness to obey outweighs reluctance or self-doubt. – Compare Moses (Exodus 4:10–12) and Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:6–9); both hesitated, both responded. • Visibly present with the people – “He stood among the people.” Effective leaders don’t rule from a distance; they live in close proximity to those they serve. – 1 Peter 5:3 urges elders to be “examples to the flock,” not detached directors. • Distinct and equipped for the task – Saul’s physical height made him immediately noticeable—God often grants obvious, fitting abilities. – 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 teaches that gifts vary, but each comes from the Spirit “for the common good.” – Caution: outward traits alone never suffice (1 Samuel 16:7). A leader’s distinctiveness must be matched by godly character. • Marked by initial humility – Hiding among the baggage (10:22) may reveal fear, yet it also shows Saul didn’t push himself forward. – Proverbs 11:2; James 4:6 both link humility with wisdom and grace. Seek leaders who tremble before God rather than clamor for attention. • Accountable before those they lead – “He stood among the people” also means he could be seen, assessed, even questioned. – Hebrews 13:17 speaks of leaders “who must give an account.” Visibility fosters accountability. Living It Out Today When evaluating potential leaders—whether for church, workplace, or community—look beyond résumé polish. Ask: • Has God unmistakably opened the door for this person’s role? • Do they answer the call with obedience, not self-promotion? • Are they present, available, and engaged with the people they serve? • Has God equipped them with gifts suited to real needs? • Do humility and accountability shape their decisions and relationships? Leaders who embody these traits echo the pattern glimpsed in 1 Samuel 10:23 and confirmed throughout Scripture. |
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