2 Samuel, Chapter 9, Verse 7
“Do not be afraid,” David said to him, “I will
surely be kind to you for the sake of Jonathan your father. I will restore to
you all the lands of Saul your grandfather, and you shall eat at my table
always.”
David is showing
compassion to Mephibosheth; Jonathan’s disabled son following the civil war between
Israel and Judah. In the end David reigns over all of Israel. Israel with
David’s leadership then quickly defeats the Jebusites taking Jerusalem; defeats
the Philistines and brings the Ark to Jerusalem and God makes his Covenant with
David. Thus David’s heart was full of gratitude. David now can return the favor
of his old friend Jonathan to his son and restores his lands and David orders
his servants to cultivate Mephibosheth’s lands, providing him with food, income
and a place in the court. Gratitude cultivates generosity. This is the law of
the Picture.[1]
The law of the picture summarizes what is often observed
in human nature. People tend to mimic the behaviors of their leaders. When a
leader demonstrates behaviors that lead to success, people that follow mimic
those behaviors and succeed as well. The picture consists of vision, mission,
and strategy. When the leader lives the vision, the leader models the vision
making it real and alive.
Nothing is easier
than saying words. Nothing is harder than living them, day after day – Arthur
Gordon
Good leaders recognize the importance of the example
they set. [2]
1. People watch what you do.
As a leader, recognize that people tend to model behaviors that you display.
People tend to believe what they see not necessarily what they hear. You
convince people by what you do not by what you say.
2. Teaching what is right is
easier than doing what is right. Leaders must be willing to
make sacrifices that are painful and personal.
3. Change yourself before
trying to improve others. As a leader, you need to lead
yourself first. Set high standards of excellence for yourself. Work the hardest
and longest on improving yourself. Failing to lead by example creates a fuzzy
picture to those you intend to lead.
4. A leader’s example is the
most value gift a leader can give. People desire leaders
where espoused beliefs and actions align. People learn best from watching good
leaders in action. Many leaders emerge by observing and replicating the
behaviors of leaders that mentored them.
Daily Devotions/Prayers
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