Wednesday, July 20, 2016

Leadership From A Cave


I am reminded daily of the story of David, as he was running for his life from King Saul. He had to leave his home and flee to caves like a criminal because of this jealous man. David by this time was anointed privately by Samuel to be king; still the fulfillment of God's plan for him seem to be far from becoming reality. The promise of God looked hopeless and even dead. Yet, as David was in a dark lonely cave God brought Him men in the number of 400 who were distressed, in debt, discontented and they desperately needed to be encouraged. I know the last thing David needed was to be surrounded by more problems. If anything, after running for his life and having to watch his back for Saul’s spies, David probably did not have much strength to encourage himself in the Lord, let alone others. Still in all, David in the most difficult moments of his life took on this challenge and began encouraging, and teaching these men in the ways of God.
In the darkness of the cave in Adullam David became a light to them. As time progressed, these men became different, stronger, renewed, and transformed in their mind, body, and souls. They became like David in a sense. They took on his character, strength, and faith. They were like an image of David himself. These men learned to fight and overcome their internal battles before they fought external ones. They became warriors against depression, and hopelessness before they were warriors in the battle front. They were no longer weak men they were now David's Mighty Men and ready to serve their leader and his people. I believe David also needed these men. God was using these men to shape him into the king that God promised. This trial and challenge was needful for him. Truly, there would be no people for him to rule without first serving those broken men in need. No palace without pressure. No kingdom blessing without the cave experience.
David is a type of Christ and in the same manner when we begin to spend time with Jesus, learn from him, and serve his people; we will become transformed in His image and likeness. Men, despite our busy schedules, issues of life, and even weaknesses, let us rise up and help one another. We become better men when we give of ourselves. We become stronger when helping others in their pursuit of God. Our faith is elevated when we serve and encourage the body. I believe this is teamwork in its highest form. You may not actually be in cave like David was but you are somewhere where people need you. Take that opportunity to help others grow beyond their capability. Be a servant and a leader to them. Show them the way of success with the talents and resources God gave you. Take some time and be God's mighty men today.  Let us be a light on a hill and a tower of strength to represent the likeness of Christ to all whom God puts in our path and beyond it.  Be blessed. 

1 comment:

  1. I am deeply encouraged and directed by this write-up.
    I would love if you could speak more to me about what you feel David taught these men right there in the cave.

    ReplyDelete