“When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan.”
– Proverbs 29:2 (NLT).
Did you ever witness a student election while in school? Some candidates are widely loved, while others are feared due to the kind of reputation they have. The rest of the school year can be predicted by whoever wins. How much more in the case of national leadership of a country, where real lives and policies are affected based on who wins?
As believers, we must recognise the weight of governance and resist the urge to shy away from offices where our voices can be heard and our values represented. Biblical leadership is service-oriented, selfless, and Christ-centred. This divine form of leadership prioritises the needs of others, operates with integrity, and trusts God. Unlike the leadership styles seen in the world, it follows the example of Jesus’ sacrificial love and service. God expects you to approach leadership positions from the standpoint of love, service, and responsibility.
Today’s anchor verse contrasts two leadership styles: one that benefits the people and causes them to rejoice, and another that impoverishes the people and causes pain. God expects the believer to see the government/leadership as an opportunity to serve people. In Mark 10:42 Jesus described worldly leadership as lordship authority over people. However, in verse 43, He also explains what God expects of believers in positions of authority and leadership through serving others. Godly leadership strips you of selfish ambition and toxic leadership traits. The leader God approves of uses their office to serve and be a blessing to others.
Jesus is the believer’s example in leadership. Philippians 2:5-8 highlights the mind of Christ as an attitude of humility and sacrificial service. The life of Jesus demonstrates that authentic leadership is indeed characterised by service. This type of leadership gives, serves, and goes to great lengths to improve others. As a leader or one who desires to be one, you ought to draw your inspiration from the example of Jesus Christ.
Leaders who truly reflect the character of God must decide to be counter-cultural. Hezekiah was one of the righteous kings of Judah, remembered not just for power or wealth, but for his devotion to God. Scripture says he did what was right in the sight of the Lord and followed the example of David (2 Kings 18:3–5). His example serves as a reminder that faithfulness is not about blending in but about standing firm in trust and obedience, even when others choose a different path. Just as Hezekiah used his position to restore worship and honour to God, we are equally called, whether in leadership or daily life, to use our influence to point others back to Him. Leaders who display the character of God in government must decide to be counter-cultural. In the genealogy of the kings of Judah, Hezekiah stood out for good. In 2 Kings 18:3-5, he was described as one who did right in the sight of God and followed the example of David. Of all the kings of Judah, his faith in God distinguished him in righteousness. While the kings before him went astray and served other gods, he chose to uphold godly values and use his kingly office to honour God.
Dear believer, you have a part to play in the leadership of your country; take up space and uphold policies of righteousness. Do not conform to what the world has deemed normal, but is against the will of God. Use that office to shine your light, serve and be a blessing to others.
Bible Reading Plan: Psalm 109-111, Revelation 11:8; 12:6