Why does a leader’s character matter? - Leadership - TouchPoints

Ezekiel 18:5-9“Suppose a certain man is righteous and does what is just and right. . . . He does not commit adultery . . . is a merciful creditor . . . does not rob the poor but instead gives food to the hungry and provides clothes for the needy. He . . . stays away from injustice, is honest and fair when judging others, and faithfully obeys my decrees and regulations. Anyone who does these things is just and will surely live, says the Sovereign Lord.”

People may argue that leaders’ personal lives do not really matter as long as they do their work well. God, however, does not make a distinction between your public and private life. Justice, righteousness, integrity, mercy, honesty, fairness, and faithfulness are essential traits of a leader’s character because they reflect who a person really is. They demonstrate that the person understands what is truly important in life—loving, honoring, and respecting God and others.

1 Corinthians 4:5So don’t make judgments about anyone ahead of time—before the Lord returns. For he will bring our darkest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives. Then God will give to each one whatever praise is due.

Sometimes leaders are tempted to believe that they are exempt from the standards to which all others are subjected. They may abuse their privileges as leader. But whatever is hidden will eventually be revealed.