I’d love to consider the heart of a leader. Specifically consider the heart of the Old Testament character Joseph.
Someone once asked me what I primarily look for in the hiring of a staff position. I said, without reservation, first and foremost, I look for the heart. I want a heart which honors Christ more than self, one which desires to grow and learn, and one which is willing to sacrifice personal privilege for benevolent purpose of others.
The heart of a leader is more important than any other characteristic.
Consider the life of a Bible character by the name of Joseph. Joseph’s story runs from Genesis 37-50. It’s an amazing story of God’s sovereignty and grace. Joseph is a standard bearer for character in the Old Testament. Some say he’s in many ways an Old Testament example of Christ – not sinless, as Christ was, but certainly a God-fearing man.
Joseph is representative of the kind of heart of a leader we should seek to have.
5 Qualities to Seek in the Heart of a Leader
1. Imagination
Joseph was a dreamer. It caused him some problems, but he was able to see what others couldn’t see. He saw the big picture.
Of course, this came from God, but I believe God has equipped all of us with the ability to dream. It may not be prophetic in nature, but we can seek and find the big picture if we are looking for it.
2. Integrity
When tempted by Potiphar’s wife and when an opportunity for revenge against his brothers presented itself, Joseph resisted temptation.
The leader’s heart must continually seek what is right and good. People are watching and even the perception of evil can ruin a good leader. The heart of a leader must be above reproach.
