Perhaps one of the most hotly debated qualifications for godly leaders is that they rule their own household well. We are often informed today that it is none of our business how people lead in their home. If their marriage is struggling or their children rebelling, that has no bearing on their effectiveness as leaders.
Yet Scripture, which thoroughly understands human nature, asks how people who cannot lead effectively in their home can be expected to lead people whom they presumably care even less about. If we cannot keep our vows to our spouse, how will we honor our promises to our associates? If those who know us best do not respect us, how can we expect to win the loyalty of those with whom we work?
Scripture is clear that, if we are faithful in a little, we will prove to be faithful with much. It is entirely reasonable to estimate peoples’ possible effectiveness in leading an organization by first examining how they lead their own family. If our family loves and respects us, we may well be leaders for whom love and affection follow us to work. But if our home is presently in turmoil, we would do well to put it in order first, before actively seeking leadership roles farther afield.