Like leader, like followers. Like master, like household. Followers are a reflection of the leader. It's unrealistic to expect followers to grow beyond their leader's level. It's also unrealistic to expect them to differ significantly from their leader. People are drawn to leaders who are like them. The following thoughts from Proverbs 29 help with reflecting on this principle.
- Attitude. When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; when the wicked are in authority, the people mourn. (Proverbs 29:2)
- Stability. Leaders create stability, security, and justice, and prevent injustice, insecurity, and instability. (Proverbs 29:4)
- Compassion. Good leaders see the poverty of their people, while bad ones ignore it. (Proverbs 29:7)
- Honesty. When leaders listen to lies, their staff will imitate them. (Proverbs 29:12)
- Vision. A clear picture of the future holds an organization together. (Proverbs 29:18)
Proverbs 29:1-18
1 He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.
2 When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.
3 Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance.
4 The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.
5 A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet.
6 In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare: but the righteous doth sing and rejoice.
7 The righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it.
8 Scornful men bring a city into a snare: but wise men turn away wrath.
9 If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest.
10 The bloodthirsty hate the upright: but the just seek his soul.
11 A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.
12 If a ruler hearken to lies, all his servants are wicked.
13 The poor and the deceitful man meet together: the LORD lighteneth both their eyes.
14 The king that faithfully judgeth the poor, his throne shall be established for ever.
15 The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.
16 When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increaseth: but the righteous shall see their fall.
17 Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.
18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.
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