Genesis 1: A Blueprint for Policy and Governance

Catherine (🇭🇹Guillaume🇭🇹) Sackey, MPAP

She/Her

Master of Public Affairs and Politics | 2024 Princeton P3 Scholar | 2022 Rutgers University Paul Robeson Scholar | Analyst | NJ Certified MWBE | Community Development Advocate | Leadership Development Consultant

Introduction

I initially began sharing my reflections on Exodus, drawn to its themes of governance and leadership. However, as I continued my journey through the 365-Day Bible Reading Plan on the Bible App, I felt compelled to backtrack. I needed to start at the beginning—Genesis—to fully grasp the foundational themes that shape leadership, policy, and governance.

This realization prompted me to take a more intentional approach. I also recognized the importance of setting aside time to engage with God’s Word fully. Though I initially considered posting my reflections on Sundays, life’s many demands require flexibility. I will share these insights when the time feels right.

I am incredibly grateful to those who have reached out—some with words of encouragement, others with words of caution. I understand that leaning into faith as a lens for understanding governance and policy is a nuanced journey. However, the Bible is not just a spiritual text; it is also a guide for leadership, illustrating how nations are built, how justice is administered, and how leaders should steward power and responsibility.

Genesis 1, in particular, offers a profound framework for leadership, intentional planning, and sustainable governance.

Day 1: The Foundation – Light and Order

Genesis 1:1–3

Before anything else, light was introduced. Light represents clarity, structure, and purpose—all essential for governance. Without transparency, leaders cannot effectively guide their people. Just as light brought form to a formless world, policy must establish order, direction, and vision.

Reflection

• What does this creation day reveal about leadership?

• How do our policies reflect the intention found in this day?

• Are we building systems that lead to clarity, order, and growth?

Day 2: Separation and Structure – The Foundation of Systems

Genesis 1:6–8

God separated the waters, creating the sky and the sea. This was an act of organization, not division. Separation in governance should mean structure and efficiency, not destruction.

Reflection

• What does this creation day reveal about leadership?

• How do our policies reflect the intention found in this day?

• Are we building systems that lead to clarity, order, and growth?

Day 3: Sustainability – Land, Vegetation, and the Seeds of Growth

Genesis 1:9–13

God brought forth dry land and vegetation with seeds—built for regeneration. Policies must be designed not only to fix issues but to reproduce sustainability and growth.

Reflection

• What does this creation day reveal about leadership?

• How do our policies reflect the intention found in this day?

• Are we building systems that lead to clarity, order, and growth?

Day 4: Governance and Leadership – The Role of the Sun, Moon, and Stars

Genesis 1:14–19

Governance appears for the first time here. The sun, moon, and stars were given authority to govern time and rhythm—metaphors for leadership clarity, accountability, and collaboration.

Reflection

• What does this creation day reveal about leadership?

• How do our policies reflect the intention found in this day?

• Are we building systems that lead to clarity, order, and growth?

Day 5: Growth, Expansion, and the Purpose of Creation

Genesis 1:20–23

God filled the skies and seas with life and instructed them to multiply. Similarly, good policies should produce growth and allow communities to thrive.

Reflection

• What does this creation day reveal about leadership?

• How do our policies reflect the intention found in this day?

• Are we building systems that lead to clarity, order, and growth?

Genesis 1 as a Model for Leadership and Governance

Genesis 1 is more than a creation story; it is a blueprint for leadership, governance, and sustainable policy. Each day of creation reflects a principle:

- Day 1: Establish vision and order.

- Day 2: Structure systems for balance.

- Day 3: Design with sustainability in mind.

- Day 4: Build accountable governance.

- Day 5: Promote growth and flourishing.

Genesis 1:16 uses the word 'govern' to describe divine order. Leadership is not domination—it is stewardship. Leaders must nurture and build with clarity and care.

Reference Guide

All Scripture citations are from The Holy Bible: New International Version (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011).

- Genesis 1:1–3 — Light and creation

- Genesis 1:6–8 — Separation of sky and sea

- Genesis 1:9–13 — Vegetation and seeds

- Genesis 1:14–19 — Celestial governance

- Genesis 1:20–23 — Multiplication and abundance

Policy Over Politics Leadership Note

This teaching is part of the Policy Over Politics Christian Leadership Series. It serves to align the leader’s heart and decisions with God’s divine policy—truth over the shifting politics of emotion and self-interest. Leadership begins with God’s order and is sustained through continual alignment with His Word.

Definition of Leadership

Leadership is the stewardship of alignment—the ability to govern oneself, others, and assignments according to God’s divine order. It is not built on performance, power, or popularity, but on the leader’s capacity to obey, believe, and trust God fully while carrying others through their gaps until alignment is complete.