II Samuel 5:2 "Also in time past, when Saul was king over us, thou wast he that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the LORD said to thee, Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be a captain over Israel."
Biblical Leadership
The New Testament tells us that the Lord Jesus "came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many." (Matthew 20:28) Elsewhere, the Bible recounts that Jesus "took upon him the form of a servant." (Philippians 2:7) Ironically, today we are more interested in styles of leadership than forms of servanthood. Let's look at three lessons on serving from the life of David.
First, we see that David led without being king. When the power was shifting at this time in Israel, the people reminded David that he led even when Saul was king. In fact, David learned about leading people as king when he was leading his dad's flocks as a shepherd! In both instances, David's life was characterized by feeding, protecting, guiding, and serving others (sheep and people). You don't need a position or fancy title to serve! David led Israel without being king; and you ought lead by serving, no matter what your position or title.
Second, we see that David grew when God was with him. Verse 10 says, "And David went on, and grew great, and the LORD God of hosts was with him." Verse 12 tells us that "David perceived that the LORD had established him king over Israel. . . ." When God was with David, David grew! God being with you is the important thing; growing is the happy benefit! It is more important that God be with you than that you have money, popularity, success in business, or a prominent position. God will take care of all these things when you "seek . . . first the kingdom of God. . . ." (Matthew 6:33).
Third, we see that David was king for the sake of the people. Why did God establish David as king over Israel? "He had exalted his kingdom for his people Israel's sake." God was giving David the kingdom, not for David's sake, but for the sake of His people. It wasn't a reward for David; it was a help for God's people. If you see the place God has given you as a reward for yourself, you'll have a shallow, fragile existence! Instead, see the skill, position, and opportunity God has given as for the benefit of others. God's gifts are not for hoarding; they are for giving. God gifts so you will give.
Our world is consumed with styles of leadership and is distracted by personalities. Are you leading by serving right now, no matter your position? Are you allowing God to grow you, instead of manipulating and striving for what you desire? Do you see your gifts from God as gifts to give or rewards to keep? When we look into the Bible, we see a great example of how to serve others in the life of David.
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