Choosing a Leader: A Biblical Guide as Election Day Approaches

Introduction: Looking for a Leader in Imperfect Times

With Election Day approaching, many are weighing choices for leadership in challenging times. As believers, we know that Yeshua, the only perfect man to walk the earth, exemplifies the qualities we ultimately hope to see in a leader. While no earthly leader will ever match Yeshua’s perfection, we can look to the Bible for guidance on qualities that reflect godliness and wisdom. Until the day Yeshua establishes His Kingdom and reigns as the true King, we are called to choose leaders wisely.

Section 1: What the Bible Says About Leaders and Righteous Authority

The Bible gives believers a clear picture of what godly leadership should look like. Leaders are called to reflect righteousness, justice, and humility, serving as stewards of Yehovah’s principles rather than self-serving rulers. Proverbs 29:2 captures this well: “When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.” This verse highlights the profound impact that leaders have on society, calling us to seek out leaders who reflect Yehovah’s heart and principles.

In Deuteronomy 17:14-20, Yehovah gives instructions to Israel regarding the selection of a king. The requirements given—such as not acquiring wealth for oneself, not amassing excessive power, and writing a personal copy of the Torah to keep it close—reflect qualities we should consider when choosing leaders. Although we do not have a monarchy, these principles encourage us to look for leaders who value humility, seek wisdom from Yehovah’s Word, and show restraint in power.

Section 2: Qualities to Seek in a Leader

While no one will ever fully embody Yeshua’s character, certain qualities in a leader can reflect aspects of His life and teachings. Here are a few biblical traits to prioritize:

1. Integrity and Honesty

• Scriptural Basis: Proverbs 16:13 says, “Righteous lips are the delight of a king, and he loves him who speaks what is right.”
• Explanation: Integrity means honesty and adherence to moral principles, a cornerstone of godly leadership. Leaders who lack integrity may be more inclined toward corruption or self-interest. Just as Yeshua spoke and lived truth, a leader should be someone who values honesty and transparency.

2. Humility and Service

• Scriptural Basis: Mark 10:42-45 records Yeshua teaching, “Whoever would be great among you must be your servant… For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve.”
• Explanation: A true leader understands that authority is meant for service, not self-exaltation. Yeshua modeled servant leadership, and while an earthly leader may fall short of this ideal, we should seek someone who demonstrates humility and a willingness to put the well-being of others before personal ambition.

3. Wisdom and Discernment

• Scriptural Basis: James 1:5 promises, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
• Explanation: Wisdom is an essential quality for navigating complex issues and making decisions that impact the community. A godly leader should seek wisdom from Yehovah, surrounding themselves with wise advisors and approaching decisions with discernment rather than impulsiveness.

4. Commitment to Justice and Fairness

• Scriptural Basis: Micah 6:8 calls us “to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.”
• Explanation: Justice is close to Yehovah’s heart. Leaders should be committed to fairness, treating all people equitably and advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves. A godly leader will make decisions that reflect justice and compassion, striving to benefit society as a whole.

5. Self-Control and Humility

• Scriptural Basis: Proverbs 16:32 states, “Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.”
• Explanation: Leaders often face great temptation to abuse power, and self-control is vital for managing authority responsibly. A leader with self-control will avoid impulsive decisions and approach issues with humility. Self-control shows maturity, a crucial quality for navigating difficult situations.

Section 3: Examples of Righteous Leadership in Scripture

The Bible provides examples of leaders who embodied godly principles, even if imperfectly. David, despite his flaws, was described as a man after Yehovah’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14), showing genuine repentance when he erred. Joseph governed Egypt with wisdom and compassion, forgiving those who wronged him and saving countless lives during a famine. These leaders displayed humility, wisdom, and a commitment to justice—traits we should look for when choosing leaders today.

Additionally, Yeshua’s interactions with those He led reflect the ultimate model of leadership. Matthew 9:36 describes how “When He saw the crowds, He had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” His empathy, compassion, and commitment to truth remain unparalleled.

Section 4: Recognizing Yeshua as the True King

While we may look for godly qualities in our earthly leaders, it’s essential to remember that Yeshua alone is the perfect King. Earthly leaders will inevitably fall short, as they are human, bound by imperfections and limitations. However, the Bible assures us of Yeshua’s coming reign when He will establish His Kingdom in righteousness and truth.

Revelation 19:16 proclaims Yeshua as “King of kings and Lord of lords,” a promise that, one day, He will rule with perfect justice, love, and power. Until that time, we are called to be discerning, seeking leaders who align as closely as possible with Yeshua’s example.

Section 5: A Prayer for Wisdom in Choosing Leaders

As Election Day approaches, we can take comfort in knowing that Yehovah’s wisdom is available to us. James 1:5 encourages believers to seek Yehovah’s guidance, especially in moments of decision. A prayer for wisdom can look like this:

“Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your perfect wisdom and ask that You guide us in choosing leaders who reflect Your heart. Give us discernment to recognize integrity, justice, and humility in those who seek to lead. May our choices honor You, and may we look forward with hope to the coming of Your Kingdom, when Yeshua will reign as the true King. Amen.”

Conclusion: Making Godly Choices Until Yeshua’s Return

While no earthly leader will be perfect, the Bible offers guidance for choosing individuals who reflect aspects of godly character. As we await Yeshua’s return and the establishment of His Kingdom, we are called to exercise discernment and seek leaders who uphold values like justice, wisdom, humility, and integrity.

As Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” By seeking Yehovah’s guidance in our choices, we can approach Election Day with confidence, trusting that our ultimate hope is in Yeshua, the One true King