Leadership in the Bible

Leadership in the Bible and its Applicability Today When situations call for a person to stand up and take charge, it is the leaders of the world who rise to the occasion and step up to the challenge. Throughout all of history, leadership has perpetually been a quality only a few people seem to possess; however, these few people are the ones that many will always remember for what they have accomplished. The Hebrew Bible is filled with men and women who lead their people. From the Old Testament leaders of Joseph, Moses and David to Jesus, His 12 disciples and Paul in the New Testament, these people have inspired many of the leaders of today. While cultures have changed over time, the core components of leadership have always remained the same. Typically ambitious and quietly confident, leaders are also keen to listen to others and quick to learn from past mistakes. These traits served leaders in the Bible well, and they continue to be essential in developing the leaders of tomorrow. All leaders find themselves in the position they are in because of their desire and belief in themselves to succeed at the highest level. By coupling their wits with their ambition, both Joseph and David were able to work their way to positions of high authority. After Joseph had just interpreted the Pharaoh’s dreams, he suggested to the Pharaoh to “select a man who is discerning and wise” (Gen 41:33). Likewise, David slyly asks King Saul, “What shall be done for the man who kills [Goliath], and removes the shame of Israel” (1 Samuel 17:26)? In these two scenarios, both Joseph and David are aware of an available higher position, of which they knew they were the best candidates for the role. Had they not been able to envision themselves as leaders, they would never have found themselves in positions of control. Despite his infamous notoriety, Adolf Hitler is also another of the greatest leaders people have ever known. After World War I left Germany bankrupt and in tatters, Hitler