David, the Wise Leader

David was the greatest king Israel ever had. He sinned in some very serious ways. He failed to do the right thing at times. However, for the vast majority of the time he shepherded God's people according to the integrity of his heart, and he guided them by the skillfulness of his hands. (Psalm 78:72) That is a great standard for any leader.

Integrity is hard to define, but basically, it means to do the right thing for the right reason. It is being honest in all situations, because honesty is right in God's eyes. It is telling the truth, because God loves the truth.It is working hard to earn what we have because God ordained work as part of His holy plan for us. Finally, it is being the same in public as we are with our friends and family. It is consistent righteousness. Leaders who lead in the integrity of their hearts earn the respect of their people.

Skillfulness of hand is another way to say that we have the gifts to lead people. Those gifts are given by God. When we exercise the leadership gifts, we are blessed along with the people we are leading. It brings unity and peace. It brings prosperity, because we lead them correctly, and they flourish by doing the right things. Skilled leaders are honored by the people they lead.

Tomorrow, I intend to read Psalms 79-82.