What qualities should leaders possess based on 1 Chronicles 27:19? Key Verse Snapshot “over Zebulun: Ishmaiah son of Obadiah; over Naphtali: Jerimoth son of Azriel;” (1 Chronicles 27:19) What We Notice Right Away • Each leader is personally named. • Their family line is recorded (“son of…”). • They are assigned to a specific tribe, not to a vague task. • The appointments come under King David’s authority and ultimately under God’s covenant plan for Israel. Essential Leadership Qualities Highlighted • Personal credibility—being known by name and reputation. • Strong family testimony—roots that witness to consistent character (cf. 1 Timothy 3:4). • Clear responsibility—oversight of a defined group or task; no confusion about duty. • Accountability upward—answering to higher authority (David, then the LORD). • Representational fairness—every tribe receives care, modeling impartiality (James 2:1). • Proven capability—these men were already trusted before being listed (Exodus 18:21). Supporting Scriptures on the Same Traits • Exodus 18:21: “You are to select capable men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain;” • Proverbs 22:29: “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings;” • 1 Timothy 3:2-3: “An overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle.” • Titus 1:7-8 affirms integrity, self-control, hospitality, and devotion to what is good. Putting It Into Practice Today • Cultivate a name worth trusting—integrity in small things builds lifelong credibility. • Guard your household testimony—lead at home before leading elsewhere. • Accept clear assignments—serve best where responsibilities are defined. • Embrace accountability—invite oversight that keeps motives pure. • Treat all people fairly—honor each “tribe” or group you influence without favoritism. • Keep growing in competence—skill and faithfulness together commend a leader for greater tasks. Scripture presents leadership as a sacred stewardship. The simple roll call of 1 Chronicles 27:19 reminds us that God values identifiable, accountable, capable servants who care well for the people entrusted to them. |