Why does a leader’s character matter?

1 Kings 14:14, 16“The Lord will raise up a king over Israel who will destroy the family of Jeroboam. This will happen today, even now! . . . He will abandon Israel because Jeroboam sinned and made Israel sin along with him.”

Ezekiel 18:5-9“Suppose a certain man is righteous and does what is just and right. He does not feast in the mountains before Israel’s idols or worship them. He does not commit adultery or have intercourse with a woman during her menstrual period. He is a merciful creditor, not keeping the items given as security by poor debtors. He does not rob the poor but instead gives food to the hungry and provides clothes for the needy. He grants loans without interest, 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.”

1 Timothy 3:5If a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God’s church?

People often argue that a leader’s personal life does not really matter as long as the person performs his or her work. God, however, does not make a distinction between our public and private lives. 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. Leaders who don’t value integrity will surround themselves with corrupt advisors and inspire similar corruption in their followers.

Matthew 24:48-50“What if the servant is evil and thinks, ‘My master won’t be back for a while,’ and he begins beating the other servants, partying, and getting drunk? The master will return unannounced and unexpected.”

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.

1 Peter 5:2-4Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example. And when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor.

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