LEADERSHIP AFTER GOD’S HEART

“And David went on, and grew great, and the Lord God of hosts was with him” – 2 Samuel 5:10

David exemplified a life and LEADERSHIP AFTER GOD’S HEART: “And David went on, and grew great, and the Lord God of hosts was with him” (2 Sam.5:10). In 1 Samuel 13:14, God described His search for and discovery of David, as “a man after His own heart.” Acts 13:22b buttresses this: “He raised up for them David as king, to whom also He gave testimony and said, “I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My Will.” Psalm 89 narrates how God found and anointed him: “I have found My servant David; with My holy oil I have anointed him” (Psa.89:20).

David was chosen by God despite his flaws, because of his deep faith, a heart submitted to God, and willingness to follow His Will. As the apex of kingship in Israel, he reigned for 40 years, first over Judah for 7 years during which he built a track record of loyal service and integrity, attracted faithful followership, and won the people’s loyalty. Thereafter, he ruled over the entire nation for 33 years as the elders of Israel, recognizing his sterling qualities, called on him; not him going to them (vv.4-5). His leadership traits included: compassion, courage, faith, and passion to serve God despite his personal failures and struggles.

A leader after God’s heart prioritizes God’s Will over his own. A willingness to do whatever God commands was a hallmark of David’s leadership style, plus a heart submitted to God, genuine repentance when sin occurred, and a commitment to total obedience. This contrasted with King Saul’s self-serving and disobedient leadership. In choosing, appointing, and anointing leaders, God values inner devotion and a contrite spirit more than moral perfection. Portraying honesty and accountability in Psalm 51, David humbly and promptly acknowledged his flaws when confronted by God, unlike Saul, who made excuses.

David’s leadership was centered on God and distinguished by other virtues, namely:

David was divinely chosen. His deep conviction of being called and anointed undergirded his exemplary service (1Sam.16:11-13; 2Sam.7:18-29).

David constantly inquired from the Lord for guidance and direction (1Sam.30:8; 2Sam.2:1; 5:19; 23:1-4).

David was deeply humane, as in seen in his reaction to the death of Uzzah by the ark of God (2Sam.6:6-9). Subsequently, he took every precaution to ensure the proper conduct of the Ark back to Jerusalem (2Sam.6:13-18).

David was a man of deep faith and devotion to God. Seventy-five of the 150 psalms are attributed to him. His love for God is seen in his unashamed manner of offering praise and thanks to God (2Sam.6:13-18).

David conducted wars of conquest, initiated an era of prosperity and power; and laid the foundation of the Solomonic empire. Yet, he recognized God and His Glory in all his blessings, not taking credit to himself for any success (v.12).