What does the Bible say about God's choice of leaders?

In 1 Samuel 16:7, we read, 'For the Lord sees not as man sees; for man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.' This verse highlights that God's criteria for selecting leaders differ significantly from human criteria, which often rely on appearance and status. King Saul was selected based on his impressive stature, but his rejection by God serves as a powerful reminder that true leadership is defined by a heart aligned with God’s will. In contrast, David, who was chosen and anointed by God, illustrates that divine selection focuses on inner character and obedience rather than external qualifications.