David and Leadership

Leadership: Larry Thomas
Tuesday, January 25, 2005

David gained some significant heart lessons through conflicts in his life. Most still apply to contemporary spiritual leaders. First, the weak need not apply for leadership. The tumult of today calls for stout hearts and courageous leaders for the Christian movement. Many say that we live in an age more like the times Jesus encountered when he walked the lands of Israel. In any case, leaders unsure of their calling to lead in a church culture that demands change while coveting "the way it used to be" would be better off doing anything else.

Second, the leader must expect conflict. The conflict allergic leader who shrinks from all conflict and gives in to fear will fail to preside over any expansion of the local congregation. Conflict is part of life. We are not called to like it, but to embrace it just as we embrace the everyday tension of living out known priorities in the midst of reacting to "everyone's" crisis.

Third, leadership must be earned. Enjoying leadership by virtue of position is increasingly rare. Gone are the days of "I'm the boss because I am the pastor or appointed leader." Today's leader will not enjoy the fruits of leadership unless he/she understands and is willing to make the investment in building genuine individual relationships with everyone being led.

Fourth, betrayal poses the single greatest emotional threat to the leader and leader's followers. The battles of leadership often will be lost from hearts broken. Betrayal is to be expected and endured as Jesus endured. Those called to leadership will endure disappointment. Set high standards for yourself and those you lead, and then stay on task.

Fifth, the leader needs to secure the blessings of God for those following. The benefits of David's conflicts extended beyond him. His victories brought peace and blessing to those who lived under his leadership influence.

Five Leadership Lessons David Learned

  • The weak of heart need not apply for leadership.
  • The leader must expect conflict to come as part of the territory.
  • Leadership must be earned.
  • Betrayal poses the greatest emotional threat to the leader and the leader's followers.
  • The leader needs to secure the blessings of God for the followers.

Remember, to be more in love with Jesus today than when we first met him, he must be Lord in our lives, not just Lord of our wishes. Finish well.