So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, And guided them by the skillfulness of his hands. (Psa 78:72)
You are leader more than you know. You are a leader if someone looks up to you or depends on you. You are a leader if you are a parent, older sibling, Sunday school teacher, have others under your direction at work, the man of the house, have a position in a group, and etc. You might not like to be called a leader for fear of the responsibility or how others may misconstrue the term, but you are a leader nonetheless.
David was a leader. God took him from the sheepfold and exalted him, so he could shepherd the people of Israel. His leadership fell into two categories:
INTEGRITY OF HEART: David was a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22) and a man of deep character. He wasn’t perfect but when he sinned he confessed it to God (Psa 51) and led the people in God’s ways. The Bible says to be a leader in the church you must first be above reproach (1 Tim 3). It’s not too vogue today in our nation to lead with integrity. We have seen America display its values in times past by voting for economics over ethics. But for the Christian, integrity of character is premium.
SKILLFULNESS OF HANDS - David was a skillful leader. God had prepared him as a shepherd and in the sheepfold, he learned valuable lessons that prepared him for the future (1 Sam 17:36). Jesus spoke a parable about investing what has been given to you (Mat 25:14-30) and that to whom much is given, much will be required (Luke 12:48). Are you investing your time, talents, and treasure for the things of the Lord?
Don’t be afraid of the position of leadership that has been given to you. This is how you grow. You have been led and now it’s your turn to lead. Knowing others are looking to you for guidance will strengthen your character and increase your skill. God has prepared you for such a time as this (Esther 4:14). You can do your best like David by leading according to the integrity of your heart and the skillfulness of your hands.
It’s too easy to stay on the level where you are. Step up and be the leader God is calling you to be!
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Phil 4:13)
. . . Here am I! Send me. (Isa 6:8)
Louie