Does your leadership strengthen the bond of loyalty? (95-1) ~ Barry Werner

Does your leadership strengthen the bond of loyalty? (95-1)

November 9th, 2009 in 2 Samuel, Leadership Principles, Loyalty, Old Testament | leave a response

Leadership is a gift from God. Everyone is a leader to some degree in their home, in a peer group, etc., but a select few are given more influence and given the privilege of serving others in a leadership capacity in their church, work, play, community, or nation. Wise leaders take their leadership responsibility seriously and understand that loyalty will be earned through their consistency over a period of time. Effective leaders understand the “two way” nature of loyalty and serve with consistency while continuing to strengthen the bond of loyalty. When the leader fails in their leadership responsibilities respect can erode and loyalty can be lost. Read 2 Samuel 15:1-37.

Sometime after he returns to Jerusalem following the murder of his brother Amnon, Absalom rises to power and assumes a position of leadership in Israel. In the intervening years he becomes a stronger, more forceful leader than his father, David. He wins the people’s loyalty.

David, despite his natural leadership abilities, somehow loses his conviction and resolve. Before the chapter ends, David leaves his throne in Jerusalem, flees the city rather than defending a position and fulfilling a responsibility of leadership God assigned to him, and he forfeits the respect and loyalty of some that had committed to his leadership.

What happened? How did one of the great leaders of Israel become ineffective and a bitter, murdering rebel rise to power and steal the loyalties of the people? Absalom did not steal David’s right to lead; David gave it away:

• David no longer went to battle while Absalom provided himself and those around him with resources and weapons.

• David doesn’t provide enough deputies to handle the people’s complaints while Absalom speaks about justice and meets other’s needs for fairness in the city.

• David becomes distant and out of touch with the people while Absalom steals the people’s hearts by being available to them every day.

• David becomes politically correct in his views while Absalom rallies the people behind his vision.

• David loses courage and flees the city while Absalom rises up and leads Israel and takes the capitol city.

People usually follow leaders that are stronger than themselves. It is not hard to see why Absalom could rally so many Israelites to his side.