When Control Looks Like Wisdom: Unmasking the Machiavellian Heart

What does it mean to be called Machiavellian?

Spoiler: it’s not a compliment.

The term refers to the political philosophy of Niccolò Machiavelli, particularly outlined in his famous work The Prince. It describes someone who is cunning, strategic, and often manipulative—focused more on outcomes than integrity.

I remember reading The Prince years ago and revisiting it recently. What struck me wasn't the brilliance of strategy but the unsettling realization:
Sometimes, I am more Machiavellian than I care to admit.

This book doesn’t just challenge the state of politics—it challenges the state of the human heart. That’s why I believe The Prince is worth reading—not to emulate it, but to examine your own motives.

A Few Quotes from Machiavelli’s The Prince

“Before all else, be armed.”
“It is much more secure to be feared than to be loved.”
“A prince never lacks legitimate reasons to break his promise.”
“Men rise from one ambition to another… first they secure themselves, then they attack others.”

The Core Characteristics of a Machiavellian Leader

  • Skilled in war and self-defense

  • Seeks control through fear, not love

  • Strategic observer of people—especially enemies

  • Driven by ambition and survival

  • Trusts others very little

  • Prioritizes reputation and power

  • Lacks empathy, often narcissistic

  • May show charm, but often lacks long-term loyalty or transparency

In contrast, non-Machiavellian traits include integrity, loyalty, emotional openness, and altruism—qualities that reflect a more Christlike character.

The Danger of a Subtle Drift

As I reviewed these traits, I felt the Holy Spirit nudge me to ask:
“Have you subtly slipped into Machiavellian thinking?”

It’s easy to justify manipulation as strategy. It’s easy to confuse control with leadership. It’s tempting to manage outcomes rather than trust God with them.

But Jesus calls us to a different way:

“Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!
See if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
—Psalm 139:23–24

A Call to Repentance and Discernment

Let’s not be quick to call others Machiavellian without first examining our own hearts.

Ask yourself:

  • Do I value being right over being righteous?

  • Do I pursue influence over integrity?

  • Do I manipulate outcomes instead of trusting God?

The Lord alone knows the motives of the heart. Discernment starts with humility. May we be people who don’t just reflect The Prince—but the Prince of Peace.

Researched site:

  • http://wolfthiessen.wordpress.com/2011/11/27/machiavellian-tint-of-steve-jobs-part-2-4/

  • http://changingwinds.wordpress.com/2011/02/01/is-sucking-up-to-your-boss-the-way-to-get-ahead-what-would-machiavelli-think/

  • http://shooner.hubpages.com/hub/Characteristics-of-a-Machiavellian-Leader

  • http://www.ask.com/questions-about/10-Characteristics-of-a-Machiavellian-Ruler

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The Weeds Within: A Spiritual Lesson from the Garden