Today in our Inspired Leadership Minute I want us to look at Proverbs 19:6: “Many curry favor with a ruler, and everyone is the friend of a man who gives gifts.”
Solomon warns about two different kinds of dangerous men in this Proverb.
The first warning is against people who try to flatter the leader. The phrase “curry favor” refers to blatant, insincere flattery. There are folks who will flatter a leader for the sole purpose of getting into their good graces to elevate themselves or take advantage of someone else.
Solomon also warns leaders there are those who will give gifts for the sole purpose of buying friends.
What does this mean for us as leaders today?
Leaders need to be wary of those who use flattery as a way of getting into our good graces, to get close to us, or to influence us in some way.
Likewise, leaders need to be cautious of those who try to bribe others with expensive gifts.
Christian leaders, the higher up you go, the more likely there will be people who try to influence you through flattery or buy your friendship with expensive gifts. Recognize these people for what they are and be cautious of forming any relationship with them.
That’s it for this week’s Inspired Leadership Minute. My prayer is that together we will be the powerful, inspired leaders God intends us to be!
Please leave me a comment and let me know how this week’s Inspired Leadership Minute inspired you!
