The 10 Commandments of Leadership

Leadership is fun to study and interesting to dissect. The Bible is the best source for studying any topic, especially leadership.

How would it look to view the 10 Commandments through the lens of leadership? The 10 Commandments are one of the most remarkable passages of Scripture, as they expand on what human behavior is and is not acceptable. I love that all of man’s laws and governance can be traced back to this directive from God.

The 10 commandments define behavior that cannot be taught and must be achieved, by God, through grace alone. As Galatians 2:19 says, “For when I tried to keep the law, it condemned me. So I died to the law–I stopped trying to meet all its requirements–so that I might live for God.”

If you looked at leadership through the lens of the 10 commandments, it could look a little like this:

1. Place God first in your life. Don’t put the success of your family, organization, or church above what pleases him. This will minimize out-of-place priorities and the desire to push for things that do not line up with his love.
2. Don’t make success your idol. No goals or priorities can take predominance when you are putting God first in all you do.
3. Honor God in your speech. When you are careful with what you say and keep a respectful tone, you will find it easy to lead with integrity and honor those you are leading as well.
4. Remember that people need rest. Factor in times of refreshment for anyone you are leading, and for yourself. You will be much more pleasant to be around.
5. Honor older people whom you may be leading. Remember to respect their experience and wisdom.
6. Do not harm anyone with the words of your mouth. The power of life and death is in your tongue. Use your power carefully.
7. Do not betray the trust of anyone you lead. They have placed themselves under your leadership and are trusting you to respect them and be honest with them.
8. Do not take credit for the success of someone you lead. Make sure you highlight their achievements, even at the detriment of your own success.
9. Be honest. Honesty is so important. Share openly about areas of needed improvement, along with areas that other people excel at.
10. When leading someone that is better at something than you are, avoid feelings of insecurity and jealousy and embrace the fact that they are on your team. If another leader in your organization is succeeding, give them props and celebrate it with them.

I pray that we all lean into the Spirit’s power to enable us to love and lead like him.