Overcoming Common Leadership flaws that were found in some Biblical Characters: Saul’s jealousy over David that destroyed Saul’s family

I've known quite a few leaders who were extremely difficult to work 'under' for many of the same reasons that Saul made life so difficult for those around him.

It's too easy to say that someone is the way they are because of 'insecurities.' Exactly what are some of those insecurities? The title of this indicates that 'jealousy' is one of the insecurities.

I would hasten to say that the problem behind 'jealousy' is egocentricity. Coming from that egocentric individual would be personality quirks such as trust issues, aggressive ambition, inability to entertain opposing concepts, isolating relationships, use of anger to control people, etc.

Saul was not much different from many 'bosses' today, whether in business, politics, or religion. In fact, this is 'the' problem with many situations of wife and child abuse. It is a major contributing factor among the leadership of radical fundamentalist religions around the world in their sociological dysfunction.

Saul was handed a gift from God...leadership opportunity. Saul made it a personal possession rather than a trust. He made it his vehicle for personal fulfillment rather than the betterment of those around him.

He failed.

Jesus was rather pointed in his demand that Christians are to be servants. The Apostle Paul was quite clear in the absolute requirement of seeking the good of others.

We are each called to the task/opportunity of doing everything we can to help everyone around us be fulfilled and filled with love, joy, peace, goodness, gentleness, and kindness.

Obviously Saul wasn't interested in that kind of job description and continued in his own selfish ambition with its attendant jealousy...so, the Bible says that "God put him to death." (I Chronicles 10:13-14)

Ultimately, the Gibeonites were avenged of Saul's treachery to them and Saul's male lineage was pretty much wiped out. (2 Samuel 21)

Our character flaws have long-term damaging consequences to our families.