Leadership Counterculture (Part 1)

The business world often rewards ruthless ambition and cunning, but the Bible offers a different view of what it means to truly achieve and influence others. It provides a framework for leadership that is rooted first and foremost in surrender to God in humility, then in integrity, vision, service, and resilience.  

The Bible is replete with stories of individuals who wielded power and influence in ways that transformed nations, overcame opposition, and advanced God’s purposes. From Daniel’s unyielding faith in Babylon to Nehemiah’s tenacious leadership in rebuilding Jerusalem, these figures offer timeless principles that transcend culture, era, and vocation.  

They all faced enormous challenges: exile, betrayal, opposition, and personal failures. Yet, they navigated their roles with faith and principle, demonstrating that true leadership is not about domination but service and alignment with higher values. 

For leaders wrestling with the very real challenges of today's competitive environment, these examples provide nuanced insights into the kind of leadership that goes beyond strategic manoeuvring, emphasizing spiritual wisdom and principled decision-making instead.

Children of God are called to be light in a dark world and must recognise this. We cannot play by the same rules as everyone else, or conform to the world's standards, no matter how popular or appealing they may seem. Below I explore the godly principles these exemplary leaders embodied, contrasting them with worldly approaches to power and influence. You'll walk away with practical wisdom to help you adopt a different leadership framework—one that the world desperately needs.

1. The True Source of Power

First, we must recognise that when backed by God, His power becomes ours, makes us capable of things we could never do on our own and is our superior advantage. We must acknowledge our source, as this is the foundation on which everything else is built.

Moses (Exodus 3-4)

Moses was a fugitive, having fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian taskmaster. He spent 40 years as a shepherd in the wilderness before God called him to a leadership role that seemed impossible: confronting Pharaoh and leading the Israelites out of slavery. When God appeared to Moses at the burning bush, Moses was filled with self-doubt.

Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt? - Exodus 3:11

God’s response was simple but profound:

I will be with you - Exodus 3:12

Despite Moses’ protests about his inadequacy and lack of eloquence, God equipped him with the tools and support needed to fulfil his mission. He led two million Israelites out of Egypt and served as their leader for decades. Through Moses, God demonstrated that leadership begins not with self-confidence but with trust in God’s backing, presence and guidance. 

Gideon (Judges 6-7) 

Gideon’s story begins in fear and obscurity. He was threshing wheat in a hidden place to avoid the oppressive Midianites when an angel appeared, calling him a 'mighty warrior' (Judges 6:12). Gideon was sceptical, questioning why God had allowed Israel to suffer and doubting his ability to lead. He even counted himself out from the jump:

My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family - Judges 6:15

God assured Gideon:

I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites, leaving none alive - Judges 6:16

Despite his fears, Gideon obeyed God’s unconventional battle plan, reducing his army to just 300 men and achieving victory using trumpets, jars, and torches as weapons (Judges 7). His submission to God’s direction transformed him into a mighty warrior who defeated the great Midianite army with very few men, proving that God’s power is perfected in human weakness, and it is more than enough to surmount any challenge—no matter how great. You can explore his story in detail here.

Worldly Contrast

The world often equates power with self-sufficiency, promoting the idea that success is achieved through personal effort alone. It promotes self-reliance, self-confidence and the ability to project strength as the elements for success. Leaders are encouraged to focus on their abilities and minimize their vulnerabilities. Humility is frequently seen as a weakness, and dependence on others—or on God—is dismissed as impractical. 

Biblical leadership however, as seen in Moses and Gideon, emphasizes dependence on God as the foundation of true power and influence. This begins with recognizing our limitations and submitting to His higher authority. This dependence on God does not diminish a leader’s effectiveness; it amplifies it by aligning efforts with His wisdom and strength. 

Relatable Lesson

Modern leaders often feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of their responsibilities. Whether managing a team, a company, or a nation, the weight of leadership can feel insurmountable. Moses and Gideon remind us that true power comes from humbly relying on God. For today’s leaders, this means seeking God's input in all we do, acknowledging personal limitations, and embracing vulnerability as a strength. 

Godly leaders must be utterly dependent on God. This means acknowledging that success is not self-made but God-enabled. Leaders who lean completely on God avoid the pitfalls of arrogance and, because God's ways are superior, the quality of their decisions eventually inspires trust in their followers. 

This does not mean that leaders should not deepen their competencies, but they should also recognise their superior source and plug into Him for more than they could ever achieve or attain on their own.

2. Conviction

We need to look inwards, establish what our values are and what we stand for, then stick with them regardless of circumstance. This takes work and commitment, but it really is fundamental. Leadership always tests convictions.

Daniel (Daniel 1, 6) 

Daniel was a young man when he was taken captive to Babylon. Though far from home, he resolved to remain faithful to God. When offered royal food and wine, Daniel declined, choosing instead a simpler diet that honoured his convictions (Daniel 1:8). Food? Such a small thing? It simply speaks to the level of intention and commitment that fuelled every single one of Daniel's choices, which earned him favour and wisdom, and elevated him to a position of influence. (Daniel 1:17-20). 

Later, during the reign of King Darius, Daniel’s enemies conspired to trap him by convincing the king to decree that no one could pray to any god or man except the king for 30 days. Despite the threat of being thrown into the lion’s den, Daniel continued his prayers, trusting God to protect him (Daniel 6:10). Eventually, Daniel did not die, but he actually was prepared to do so for what He believed in. His faithfulness led to miraculous deliverance, and even King Darius acknowledged the power of Daniel’s God (Daniel 6:26-27). His intriguing story is captured at length here.

Joseph (Genesis 37, 39-41) 

Joseph’s journey to leadership was marked by betrayal and suffering. Sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, he rose to prominence in Potiphar’s household. Joseph’s morals and integrity were tested when Potiphar’s wife tried to seduce him. Rather than yield to temptation, he fled, declaring:

How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God? - Genesis 39:9

For scorning her, he was falsely accused and imprisoned but remained faithful to God. Eventually, Joseph’s God-given ability to interpret dreams brought him before Pharaoh, who appointed him as second-in-command of Egypt. Joseph’s wisdom, foresight and planning saved countless lives during a severe global famine (Genesis 41:39-41). His incredible journey is outlined here.

Worldly Contrast

The world often prioritizes pragmatism over principles, endorsing compromise as a means to an end. Often, convictions take second place and integrity is negotiable. Leaders may jettison their values for personal gain, expediency, or the illusion of progress. Dishonesty, manipulation, and moral shortcuts are often justified as necessary for achieving success. 

Biblical leadership, as exemplified by Daniel and Joseph, insists that one must establish convictions and be known for them, and that integrity is non-negotiable. Strength of conviction reflects the leader’s trustworthiness and alignment with God’s will, building respect, and credibility that will endure through trials.  

Relatable Lesson

In business and politics, leaders frequently face moral dilemmas and constant pressure to compromise their values for personal gain or political expediency. Cutting corners, hiding the truth, or 'playing along' may seem like practical solutions, but Daniel and Joseph demonstrate that strength of conviction is, in fact, a long-term investment. Godly leaders build a legacy of credibility, respect and influence that opens doors even in adversity, by consistently prioritizing character over convenience.

3. Vision and Strategy

We need to recognise that vision and strategy look a lot different from God's standpoint than man's. We can actually succeed when we ask God for strategic direction and then follow His instructions. Although His methods may not be typical, they are by far superior. However, God-given vision and strategy do not abdicate personal responsibility. Godly leaders drive the vision as revealed to them by God and put in the work to drive strategic execution.

Nehemiah (Nehemiah 1-6)

Nehemiah served as a cupbearer to the Persian king when he learned of Jerusalem's ruined walls. Grieved, he fasted and prayed, asking God for favour and direction. With a clear vision and strategic plan, Nehemiah approached the king for permission and resources to rebuild the walls (Nehemiah 2:4-8). 

Nehemiah then proceeded to rally the people behind this cause, but rebuilding was not without challenges. Nehemiah faced ridicule, threats, and internal discouragement. Yet, he united and motivated the people with both spiritual and practical leadership. They worked with one hand on their tools and the other holding weapons for defence (Nehemiah 4:16-18). The walls were completed in just 52 days, an extraordinary feat demonstrating the power of focused vision and strategy under God’s guidance. Nehemiah's story provides very unique insights, and you can read it here.

Joshua (Joshua 1-6)

When Moses passed away, Joshua was tasked with leading Israel into the Promised Land. God’s command to him was clear. One of his first challenges was the walled city of Jericho. God’s instructions were unconventional: march around the city for seven days, blowing trumpets, and then shout on the seventh day. Joshua obeyed without hesitation, and the walls of Jericho fell (Joshua 6:20). His faith and adherence to God’s strategy brought victory. 

Worldly Contrast

In the world’s view, vision is often synonymous with ambition, and strategy with pragmatism. Leaders may prioritize results over ethical considerations, using any means to achieve their goals. Vision is frequently disconnected from moral or spiritual grounding, leading to short-term gains but long-term instability. 

Biblical leadership, as demonstrated by Nehemiah and Joshua, integrates vision with guidance from God, practical planning, and purpose. Such strategies may not be popular or expected, but they not only achieve practical success but also honour God and inspire people. 

Relatable Lesson

Nehemiah and Joshua teach that vision rooted in prayer, and strategy aligned with divine instruction will lead to sustainable success. Leaders today must pair a compelling vision with actionable strategies. This involves knowing what God wants and setting clear goals that line up with His desires, mobilizing resources, adapting to challenges, and staying the course all while remaining grounded in God.

4. Service and Sacrifice

People are at the centre of leadership and their wellbeing and progress is very, very important to God. When God calls us to be leaders, it is for the benefit of others, not for our ascent or recognition.

David (1 Samuel 16, 2 Samuel 5-7)

David’s leadership journey began in obscurity. He was anointed king while still a shepherd boy, but he didn’t ascend the throne immediately. However, he displayed servant leadership long before he became king. As a teenager, David protected his people as a shepherd guards sheep, even confronting the giant Goliath when no one else dared, not for personal glory but for the honour of God (1 Samuel 17). 

As king, David united Israel. Throughout his reign, he prioritized his people’s well-being and sought to honour God and serve Israel (2 Samuel 6-7). His servant leadership and devotion to God made him a 'man after God’s own heart' (1 Samuel 13:14) and the nation of Israel enjoyed unprecedented peace and prosperity with him as king, because his heart and motives were in the right place.

Esther (Esther 1-9)

Esther, a Jewish orphan turned queen, faced a life-or-death decision when her people were threatened with genocide. When Mordecai urged her to approach the king uninvited—a potentially fatal act—Esther replied:

If I perish, I perish - Esther 4:16

Risking her own life, she approached the king to plead for their salvation. Her courage, selflessness and willingness to sacrifice her comfort secured deliverance for the Jewish nation (Esther 4:16, 7:3-6). 

She exemplified sacrificial leadership, and her bravery led to the downfall of Haman, the enemy of the Jews. Esther’s story highlights the power of using influence for the benefit of others, even at great personal risk. 

Worldly Contrast

The world often views leadership as a platform for personal advancement, and power as a means to serve personal interests, accumulate wealth, or secure status. Sacrifices, if made, are typically calculated for self-serving outcomes. Service is seen as optional, not essential. 

Biblical leadership flips this paradigm, asserting that influence is a tool for uplifting others. David and Esther show that true leadership is about serving others and sacrificing personal comfort for the greater good.   

Relatable Lesson

Servant leadership prioritizes the well-being of others over personal gain. Those who lead with empathy, humility, and a willingness to make sacrifices inspire loyalty and actually drive meaningful change. 

For today’s leaders, service and sacrifice may mean prioritizing employees’ well-being over profits, advocating for the marginalized, or making difficult decisions that benefit others at personal cost. David and Esther remind us that when leaders prioritize selflessness, they build trust, unity, and lasting impact with their teams, communities, and society at large.

5. Resilience

Resilience—the ability to endure, adapt, and thrive through challenges—is an essential quality for leaders. The Bible is filled with stories of individuals who exhibited extraordinary resilience in the face of trials, setbacks, and opposition. Daniel, Nehemiah, and Joseph are particularly striking examples of leaders who remained steadfast, trusting God to guide them through adversity. 

Daniel (Daniel 1-6)

Daniel's resilience is a testament to his unwavering faith and commitment to God. Despite facing numerous challenges and threats, he remained steadfast and true to his values. In Daniel 1:8, Daniel "resolved not to defile himself" by refusing to eat the king's food and drink his wine. This early act of courage set the tone for his future resilience.

Daniel's remarkable ability to serve many kings, including Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 2:46-49), Belshazzar (Daniel 5:29), Darius (Daniel 6:1-2), and Cyrus (Daniel 10:1), demonstrates his resilience and adaptability. He navigated the complexities of different royal courts, cultures, and expectations, all while maintaining his integrity and commitment to God.

When Daniel's success sparked jealousy among other officials, they sought to bring him down by exploiting his faith (Daniel 6:1-5). However, Daniel remained committed to his daily prayers, even when faced with the threat of death (Daniel 6:10-13).

Daniel's resilience was further tested when he was thrown into the lions' den. Yet, he trusted in God's deliverance, and his faith was rewarded when God sent an angel to shut the lions' mouths (Daniel 6:22-23).

Throughout his trials, Daniel demonstrated remarkable resilience, rooted in his deep faith and trust in God. His story is particularly illuminating for political leaders.

Nehemiah (Nehemiah 4-6)

Nehemiah’s resilience shone as he led the effort to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls. From the moment he arrived in the city, he faced intense opposition from external enemies, including Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem. They mocked and ridiculed the project, calling it weak and futile:

What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they restore their wall? - Nehemiah 4:2

When ridicule failed, his enemies resorted to threats of violence. Nehemiah responded by praying, encouraging the people, and setting guards to protect the workers. Even as the pressure mounted, Nehemiah refused to give in. When his enemies attempted to lure him into a trap under the guise of a meeting, he boldly replied:

I am carrying on a great project and cannot go down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and go down to you? - Nehemiah 6:3 

Through prayer, vigilance, and steadfast determination, Nehemiah and his team completed the walls in just 52 days—a miraculous accomplishment that demoralized their enemies and glorified God. 

Joseph (Genesis 37, 39-41)

Joseph’s life is a masterclass in resilience. Betrayed by his brothers and sold into slavery, he found himself in Egypt, serving in Potiphar’s household. His integrity earned him favour, but when Potiphar’s wife falsely accused him of sexual assault, Joseph was thrown into prison. 

Even in prison, Joseph remained faithful. He used his God-given gift to interpret the dreams of his fellow inmates, which eventually brought him to Pharaoh’s attention. Interpreting Pharaoh’s troubling dreams, Joseph predicted seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. Impressed by Joseph’s wisdom, Pharaoh elevated him to second-in-command, placing him in charge of Egypt’s food supply. 

Joseph’s resilience bore fruit not only in personal restoration but also in the salvation of nations. When famine struck, his foresight saved countless lives, including his own family. Joseph’s ultimate act of resilience was forgiving his brothers for their betrayal, recognizing God’s sovereign hand in his trials:

You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives - Genesis 50:20 

Worldly Contrast

In a worldly view, resilience is often associated with sheer willpower, unyielding ambition, or even ruthless pragmatism. Leaders may push through adversity by cutting ethical corners, exploiting others, or relying solely on their own strength. Success is measured by outcomes, not by the integrity of the process. 

This approach can lead to burnout, broken relationships, and short-lived victories. When resilience is rooted in self-reliance or an unbalanced focus on achievement, it often fails to provide the lasting fulfilment and positive legacy that true leadership demands. 

Relatable Lesson

Daniel, Nehemiah, and Joseph teach us that resilience is not about brute force or self-reliance but about faith, trust, and alignment with a higher purpose. For modern leaders, resilience means:

• Trusting in God’s timing: Like Joseph, who endured years of injustice before seeing his purpose fulfilled, leaders can find strength in the assurance that setbacks are part of a larger divine plan.
• Holding fast to principles: Daniel’s refusal to compromise his faith demonstrates the power of unwavering values, even under pressure.
• Staying focused on the mission: Nehemiah’s determination to complete the wall despite opposition shows that resilience involves staying the course with prayerful vigilance.

In today’s world, leaders will face criticism, setbacks, and moments of despair. Drawing from these biblical examples, they can find the strength to persevere with integrity and faith, turning trials into triumphs that glorify God.

6. Multiplying Influence

Successful leadership is not just about achieving personal success. It must create a foundation for others to build upon, ensuring that influence and vision endure beyond one’s lifetime. Moses and David exemplify the concept of godly leadership that invests in the next generation and leaves a meaningful legacy.

Moses (Deuteronomy 31:7-8)

Moses is one of the greatest leaders in history, tasked with leading the Israelites out of Egypt and guiding them through the wilderness for 40 years. Yet, Moses’ ultimate mission was not to enter the Promised Land himself, but to prepare the people—and his successor—for the journey ahead.

Knowing that he would not cross into the Promised Land, Moses poured himself into mentoring Joshua, the leader who would take up the mantle. In a public and powerful moment, Moses commissioned Joshua before all of Israel:

Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance. The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged - Deuteronomy 31:7-8

Moses' mentorship of Joshua ensured continuity of leadership and set a standard for succession planning that prioritized God’s mission over personal glory. Moses’ legacy lived on through Joshua’s victories and Israel’s eventual settlement in the Promised Land.

David (1 Kings 2:1-4)

David’s reign as king was marked by military triumphs, spiritual devotion, and personal failures. Yet his most enduring legacy was the foundation he laid for his son Solomon to build upon. Though David longed to build the temple for God, he accepted that this task was not his to complete. Instead, David prepared Solomon for the role by providing resources, instructions, and encouragement. 

Before his death, David gave Solomon this charge:

Be strong, show courage, and observe what the Lord your God requires. Walk in obedience to Him, and keep His decrees and commands, His laws and regulations, as written in the Law of Moses. Do this so that you may prosper in all you do and wherever you go - 1 Kings 2:2-3 

David’s influence extended far beyond his reign. The temple Solomon built became a central place of worship and a symbol of God’s presence with His people. Moreover, David’s legacy carried eternal significance, as his lineage culminated in the birth of Jesus Christ, the ultimate fulfilment of God’s covenant with him (2 Samuel 7:12-16). 

Worldly Contrast

Worldly leadership often focuses on individual achievements and immediate results. Leaders may seek to cement their legacy through monuments, policies, or personal accolades that glorify their own names. Succession planning, if considered, is often secondary to the leader’s desire for recognition or power consolidation.

A short-sighted approach like this can lead to instability and a lack of continuity when the leader steps down or is no longer present. The emphasis on self-promotion often leaves a void, as there is little investment in equipping others to continue the mission.

Relatable Lesson

Moses and David offer a countercultural perspective: leadership that is not about the leader’s own glory but advancing a greater, lasting mission and empowering others to carry it forward.

For modern leaders, this means:

• Mentorship: Like Moses with Joshua, leaders should intentionally invest in developing future leaders. This involves teaching, guiding, and modelling integrity and faithfulness.
• Vision for the Future: David accepted that he would not see the temple built but focused on equipping Solomon to succeed. Leaders today should prioritize long-term goals over short-term gratification, preparing the next generation to build on their foundation.
• Humility in Legacy: Both Moses and David recognized that their role was part of a larger story authored by God. Similarly, leaders should view their work as a contribution to something greater, rather than seeking personal immortality through their achievements.

True leadership creates a ripple effect that influences generations to come. Moses ensured that the Israelites would continue their journey with a strong leader. David laid the groundwork for a spiritual and cultural legacy that extended far beyond his lifetime.

In today’s world, leaders can adopt this biblical model by prioritizing mentorship, focusing on enduring missions, and aligning their vision with values that transcend personal ambition. By investing in others and looking beyond their own tenure, they leave a legacy that not only lasts but multiplies, advancing God’s purposes and serving future generations.

A Countercultural Blueprint

The stories of these biblical leaders offer a radically different approach to power and influence. They teach that true leadership is not about personal ambition but aligning with God’s purposes, seeking His wisdom, prioritising conviction over expediency and staying the course despite opposition, with the ultimate goal of serving and building others. 

However, embracing this approach to leadership is far from easy. It requires countering the pressures of self-promotion, resisting the allure of quick fixes, and standing firm in convictions when faced with criticism or adversity. This can feel isolating and even futile at times. Yet, it is precisely in these moments of difficulty that true leadership is forged—when we choose God’s wisdom over human approval.

For business and political leaders today, this countercultural approach to leadership offers not only godly success but also enduring influence, transforming leaders into catalysts for positive, lasting change in a world desperate for beacons of hope.

Conclusion

I will admit I had several questions when I realised God expected a different kind of leadership from me. How exactly would I begin? Would I not be taken advantage of? Was this even enough, and how could I be sure?

Here is a final scripture in response to this:

Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths - Proverbs 3:5-6

The journey begins with surrendering our plans to God, trusting His guidance, and allowing Him to direct our steps, even when the path seems counterintuitive to worldly wisdom. If we choose today to honour God and serve others, we will achieve success that is impactful and eternal. If in doubt, ask God to help you believe this. I say this because I had to ask for help myself.

In Part 2, which drops on Monday next, I will share very practical reflections and activities to incorporate these learnings in one's leadership walk. I fully trust that the insights will shift your thinking and influence your actions as you transition into leading God's way.

May we strive to be faithful stewards of the influence and leadership God has entrusted to us, and may our leadership be a reflection of His love, wisdom, and grace.