If you’ve got it, you and your team will be able to accomplish things you never thought possible. If you don’t, the smallest task becomes hard work and difficult.
Effective leaders understand momentum, make the choice to have it, seek God’s favor and guidance, and work to develop it.
Read 1 Kings 2:1-4:24.
- How does a winning team keep winning?
- What makes it possible for an organization to keep the momentum going?
- How did Solomon so successfully take the reins from his father?
Solomon started with what David provided. Leaders need to access the resources their predecessor leaves them and start building from that point rather than tearing everything down so it appears they have their own stamp on new progress.
Solomon humbly desired to grow as a leader and sought character development rather than recognition.
Solomon made some wise decisions that won him credibility. Wise leaders strive to have some early successes and limit early mistakes. First impressions do count and it is difficult to get a second chance at a first impression.
Solomon maintained an environment of peace. He made some bold moves against enemies within Israel and prevented a bloody civil war.
Solomon also took measures to make treaties with his neighbors. Understanding leaders seek to create a safe environment for their team.
Solomon surrounded himself with wise associates. Solomon kept a few of David’s selected servants, but not many. Most of his team he nurtured himself. Wise leaders select their team to complement their strengths and offset their weaknesses.
Solomon maintained and increased momentum in Israel by being willing to do the following:
Solomon had a willingness to accept responsibility for the organization’s momentum. Once a leader leads an organization for three years, every problem is their problem.
Solomon had a willingness to direct momentum instead of letting it direct him. David had been a military leader.
Solomon never led an army; his goals weren’t military in nature.
Solomon gave his attention to trade and construction – and that meant he had to change the direction of the nation’s momentum.
Solomon had a willingness to be enthusiastic and positive at all times. He saw his work as leading God’s people in God’s nation and he believed in his team.
All leaders face the challenge of creating change in an organization.
Effective leaders seek to get momentum on their side. Once they have momentum the future looks bright, obstacles appear small and trouble seems temporary.
Wise leaders know that with enough momentum, nearly any kind of change is possible.
