Leadership Quality: Character Part 1

Character Breeds Perspective – Genesis 50:15-21

Because Joseph spent years in God’s character—building course, he could maintain a proper perspective and use his power to bless his brothers rather than curse them.

How a leader deals with circumstances of life tells you many things about his character. A crisis will reveal your character. Adversity is a crossroad that makes a person choose one of two paths: character or compromise. The development of character is at the heart of our development as a leader.

If you want God’s perspective on life, then make sure to develop your character.

Take Your Character Seriously – Leviticus 10:1-12:8

God takes the issue of character seriously.

We need to put “being” before “doing.” Get yourself right before you work on anything else.

Far too often we jump to mechanics, methods, and techniques. We put style ahead of substance. We focus on charisma but neglect character. The following axioms beckon us to put our character first:

  1. We are given our gifts, but we must develop our character.
  2. Our character earns the trust of others.
  3. Only good character gives lasting success with people.
  4. Sound character communicates credibility and consistency.
  5. Our character colors our perspective.
  6. Ability may get you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there.
  7. We cannot rise above the limitations of our character.

Character is the Foundation for Leaders – Deuteronomy 5:1-22

General Norman Schwarzkopf said: “Leadership is a potent combination of character and strategy. But if you must be without one, be without strategy.”

Joshua and the Gibeonites – Joshua 10:1-15

Joshua compromised his leadership when he made a treaty with the Gibeonites, but once he made a covenant with them, he knew it was his duty to defend them. Integrity means that you keep your oath and “swear to your own hurt” regardless of the cost.

Boaz and Ruth Exhibit Character – Ruth 4:1-6

Character enables a leader to do what is right, even when it is difficult.

Join me next time for part 2 of Leadership Quality: Character.