A complete picture of a true leader

(This is taken from my daily devotion, dated January 11, 2011, 6:28 AM)

1 Timothy 3: 2-3, 7-10, 13

"That's why officials must have a good reputation and be faithful in marriage. They must be self-controlled, sensible, well-behaved, friendly to strangers and be able to teach.They must not be heavy drinkers or troublemakers. Instead, they must be kind and gentle and not love money...Finally, they must be well-respected by people who are not followers. Then they won't be trapped and disgraced by the devils. [Church] officials should be serious...and they must have a clear conscience and hold firmly to what God has shown us about our faith. They must first prove themselves. Then if no one has anything against them, they can serve as officers...Those who serve well as officers will earn a good reputation and will be highly respected for their faith in Christ Jesus."

Paraphrasing the qualities or shall I say the characteristics of a good leader (by Christ), we have these:

1. A leader must be faithful. Faithful in marriage in serving or in doing his commands.
2. A leader must be self-controlled, sensible, well-behaved, friendly, and able to teach.
3. A leader must not have any undesirable traits to possess.
4. A leader must be well-respected. But to earn respect, a leader must respect them [people] too.
5. A leader must be serious [especially during work].
6. A leader must listen to the clear voice within. A voice which leads you to a good way.
7. A leader must show integrity.
8. A leader must serve well with the guidance and blessing from our Lord Jesus Christ.

If these are possessed by a potential leader, everyone is assure that that person is sent by God to serve them. This leader is whole-heartedly serving the people, treating them gently because this leader knows they are creations of God.

Prayer:
I pray for a successful [campus] elections this February in Xavier University. May it be a peaceful one. Leaders who will win from this election must let God guide them to their decision-making. They must not let their selves divulge to earthly desires. Instead, serve the others with all their hearts.

God keep us all!