Eight Standards of Leadership

Psalms 15:1–5
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David starts off by asking a question. What qualifications are there for service in the tabernacle (v. 1)? The answer to this question is found in the remaining verses as he gives us eight standards of leadership. This psalm has been referred to as David’s “sermon on the mount.” Many scholars believe it was written to celebrate the bringing of the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem.

He answers the question in summary fashion first by saying that his pattern of life must be blameless and his actions righteous (v.2). He then goes on to spell out what such a person’s character is like: (vv. 3-5)

1. He speaks truth sincerely
2. He does not slander maliciously
3. He will not harm another
4. He will not discredit anyone (his neighbor) whom he comes in contact with
5. He hates a reprobate
6. He keeps his word even when it hurts
7. He does not take advantage of a person who must borrow. This means that taking interest from a fellow-Israelite was forbidden Exodus 22:25; Leviticus 25:36.
8. He does not take bribes against the innocent.

Application

Can I really say that I am living a life that is blameless? Which point above is my weakest area. I need to work on that point and memorize verses that will help me to be blameless.