The Maxwell Leadership Reading PlanSample

God's Criteria for Leaders: Shepherds After His Heart

God tells us His criteria for leadership when He promises through Jeremiah that He will give the people shepherds after His own heart—the same description given to David in the Book of 1 Samuel. What does this mean? God says these shepherds are to lead His people with “knowledge and understanding.”

This kind of leader doesn’t develop automatically. Most seminaries still struggle with providing practical, usable tools for the men and women they are preparing for ministry. A “shepherd after God’s own heart” must possess at least four skills:

1. Attitude Skills – A servant’s heart, both positive and persistent.
2. People Skills – The ability to relate to others: communicate, delegate, motivate, confront, etc.
3. Equipping Skills – The ability to train and develop others for service.
4. Leadership Skills – The ability to cast vision, plan strategy, direct teams, and empower others.