Leading by David's Example

Tonight, I began my devotional time with the song, "Worn," by Tenth Avenue North. My favorite Christian band gives us the following lyrics:

"And I know that You can give me rest, so I cry out with all that I have left: "Let me see redemption win! Let me know the struggle ends, that You can mend a heart that's frail and torn. I wanna know a song can rise from the ashes of a broken life and all that's dead inside can be reborn, 'cause I'm worn." God can give us strength when we are weak. "But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." (2 Corinthians 12:9, NIV)

The central Scripture reference tonight is 1 Samuel 26:9, which says, "But David said to Abishai, 'Don't destroy him! Who can lay a hand on the Lord's anointed and be guiltless?'" (NIV)

In order to be a good leader, you must first be a good follower. Maxwell contrasts Saul and David to illustrate this principle. Saul:

• Was self-conscious from the beginning
• Presumed the priestly office
• Disobeyed God in the little things
• Lost integrity by covering his sin
• Failed to submit to God-given authority
• Was preoccupied with his own fame

In contrast, David:

• Displayed God-confidence from the beginning
• Didn't assume any right or privilege
• Obeyed God in the little things
• Maintained integrity by respecting Saul
• Consistently submitted to authority
• Desired to increase God's reputation

There are clear differences in the descriptions that Maxwell notes. As leaders appointed by God, we should model our behavior after David's leadership, not Saul's.

The reflection question tonight asks: "How can you follow David's example of leadership?"

I make the suggestion to ask God for guidance a lot, but that's because it is important to do so. We need to get our advice and guidance from God, His Word, and other trusted, Godly people. There is no difference in this case. You can ask God for His guidance on how to use David as a leadership example to model, and then follow that guidance. God will not lead you astray!

God bless you!