IS ANYONE BETTER BECAUSE OF YOU? (1)

Read: 1 Samuel 22:1-2, 2 Samuel 23:8-38Meditation verse:

“So, he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, and guided them by the skilfulness of his hands” (Psalm 78:72)

When these men came to David whilst he was hiding from King Saul in a cave, they were distressed, discontented and in distress. And he became captain over them (1 Samuel 22:2). Fast forward to 2 Samuel 23 and see who these men became under David’s leadership. They became able soldiers and military leaders, with very special skills. They fought great battles and were victorious on all fronts. They were fiercely loyal to David and became known as “David’s mighty men”. What did David sow in the lives of these men that occasioned their transformation?David understood that leadership was for service and not for personal gain. He accepted these men when they were at their lowest and poured himself into bringing out the best in them. He knew that leadership was more about what you can give to people, not what you can take from them.He did not lead from afar but surrounded himself with these men. And because he was in their midst, he knew their strengths and weaknesses and knew how to add value to them. He had a consultative leadership style. He conferred with his officers and commanders and carried everyone along. He said to the whole assembly, “If it seems good to you, let us…” (1 Chronicles 13:1-3). He was not an “I will” leader. Learn to carry your team along. He listened to them and encouraged them to contribute to decision making.David led these men by example, and he was a very competent leader. So, it was easy for them to learn from him. Excellence does not occur by happenstance, it takes practice, diligence, and commitment. In learning from their leader, they became mighty men. He loved these men with his heart and had a great reputation. Even those who were previously in Saul’s camp as well as some of his kinsmen defected to David’s camp. And he received every one of them.

IN HIS PRESENCE is written by Oke Chinye.
Have you asked Jesus Christ to come into your heart?

He says in Mathew 11:28, “come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” He longs to give you rest."

Would you like to do so now? Here’s a prayer you can say:
Dear Jesus, I believe that You died to save me from all my sins. Today, I invite you into my heart and I accept you as my Lord and Saviour. Please forgive all my sins and help me to live my life for You.

If you prayed this prayer, send me an email at rockteachingministry@gmail.com

I would love to pray with you personally and send you a copy of my book; ‘Living the Life’ to encourage you as you begin your new life in Christ.