The Importance of Character for National Leaders

1. A Commitment to Truth-based worldview of Right and Wrong

Xerxes’ self view as a god vs. belief in absolute truth

2. The Necessity of Supporting Families

•         Xerxes did not respect his own family

•         Made policy that harmed all families

•         Vile, queen search

2. The Necessity of Supporting Families

Family – building block and strength of any society

Married, heterosexual couples have:

•         11% less rate of poverty

•         Substantially higher income

•         Double the net worth on average

•         4 times household assets

•         Significantly higher savings rates

•         Both married men and married women have higher incomes

Marriage stability’s effect on children: 

•         30% or more fewer rates of child poverty

•         Far less likely to engage in pre-marital sex

•         Teen pregnancy rate drops significantly

•         Grades increase, education levels increased

•         Drug/alcohol use drops significantly

•         Kids in divorced family 38% or higher rate of divorce

3. The Responsibility to Protect individuals/groups who inherently cannot protect themselves. i.e. his decision based on advice to continue wrongful dominance of women

4. The Importance of Wise, Honest, Advisors

Xerxes’ advisors:

•         lewd

•         drunken

•         self-interested

•         evil

•         dishonest

4. The Importance of Wise, Honest, Advisors

Advisors:

•         reflect the character of the leader,

•         reveal the direction of the leader

•         magnify either the flaws or strengths of the leader

5.  The Strength of Character to Change Wrong Decision/Mistakes

Positively, Xerxes reverses his evil decision regarding the Jews. 

(Ch 8:7-12)