This week we wrapped up our series By God’s Design, and we explored the vital role of godly leadership. Proverbs 29:2 tells us:

“When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.”

Whether we’ve learned this through coaches, teachers, bosses, or business leaders, we all know this to be true: godly leadership makes all the difference. In this series, we’ve learned that Proverbs are not ironclad promises. They are statements of wisdom that reflect general truths. And in Proverbs 29:2, we see an important wisdom statement about leadership—leadership marked by righteousness brings rejoicing, while leadership marked by wickedness brings groaning.

Godly Leadership is Good Leadership

Godly leadership equals good leadership. The characteristics that allow a person to flourish also allow an organization, family, or team to thrive. Whether we realize it or not, everyone leads someone—whether in a workplace, classroom, ministry, or home. In our day and age, if you have social media, you have influence! And the way we lead impacts those around us and ultimately points back to God.

Just like a waterfall cascading down, righteousness flows from the top, bringing life to everything below—whether it’s children in a classroom, youth on a sports team, or employees in a company. People flourish under godly leadership and groan under wicked leadership. We’ve all experienced both. A great coach, teacher, or boss can change everything. I’ve had coaches growing up that I would have jumped over a wall for—they were that good! But I’ve also had others I would’ve jumped a wall to get away from.

Four Traits of Godly Leaders

The Bible gives us practical wisdom for how to lead well. Here are four key characteristics of godly leaders that bring rejoicing to those they influence.

1. Godly Leaders Don’t Do Fear

This statement doesn’t mean that godly leaders are never afraid. While godly leaders may feel fear, they don’t give in to it. They trust God, even in uncertain circumstances. Proverbs 28:1 says, “The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.” Leaders who trust God and stand firm create stability for those they lead. It’s hard to follow someone who is always changing direction out of fear—whether that’s in a family, a workplace, or on a team. Godly leaders face challenges head-on, and people rejoice when their leaders aren’t afraid. These leaders trust in God’s sovereignty and are able to say, “Come what may! God is in control, and we will meet it when it comes!”

2. Godly Leaders Listen

Humility enables godly leaders to listen to others. Proverbs 11:14 teaches that “in an abundance of counselors, there is safety.” Leaders who recognize their blind spots and welcome feedback grow in wisdom and build trust. In case you didn’t hear my confession in the sermon, I am now a van man. The time came in our household for Anna to get a different car, and I now find myself driving the family’s van. I joked about driving a van with a camera for blind spots, but the truth is we all have blind spots, and good friends are like my van’s blind spot cameras—faithful friends help us see the areas where we need to grow. Proverbs 27:6 says, “Faithful are the wounds of a friend.” Godly leaders listen and embrace correction because they desire to reflect God’s design. 

3. Godly Leaders Understand the Power of Words

Words have incredible power—Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” Leadership doesn’t give license to speak harshly. In fact, the more leadership we take on, the more weight our words carry. Yelling or belittling creates wounds, while thoughtful encouragement brings life (Proverbs 12:25). Godly leaders use their words to guide with truth and love. Hard conversations may be necessary, but truth should never come with a harsh spirit. Whether on a team, in a family, or at work, people rejoice under leaders who speak truth with grace.

4. Godly Leaders Tell the Truth

Truth builds trust. Proverbs 12:22 says, “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight.” Leaders who speak honestly—even when it’s hard—cultivate a culture of trust. In marriage, business, and ministry, people thrive when they know they can trust their leaders to tell the truth.

The Ultimate Example of Leadership

As much as we may desire to lead well, none of us do this perfectly. But the good news is that Jesus, the perfect leader, has gone before us. Psalm 72 describes His reign—a reign that defends the poor, brings blessing, and gathers people from every nation. Because of the gospel, we have the opportunity to follow His leadership forever. Through His perfect life, sacrificial death, and victorious resurrection, Jesus has made it possible for us to benefit from His leadership for all eternity. Even now, He leads us with truth, grace, and love. Psalm 98:8 says, “Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing for joy.” If nature itself rejoices under the leadership of Christ, how much more should we?

Applying Godly Leadership in Our Lives

As we reflect on Jesus’ leadership, we are called to emulate Him. Where is God calling you to align with His design for leadership—in your home, workplace, team, or ministry? How can you create rejoicing in those you influence? Think about how Jesus has led you:

• Jesus didn’t do fear; He wasn’t afraid of your sin, and He wasn’t afraid of the cross.
• Jesus hears you and listens when you pray to Him.
• Jesus’ words are powerful over you, and He tells you the truth. In the gospel, we are shown that we are more sinful than we ever imagined, but we are also more loved than we ever dared hope.

As followers of Christ, we have the opportunity to rejoice in His godliness in terms of His leadership forever. As He is and has been to us, let us be to others. May we strive to lead in ways that bring joy and flourishing, all for His glory.

-Andrew Hopper, Lead Pastor