Bible Reading: 1 Chronicles 20-22; John 10:22-42
Memory verse: “And David said unto God, Is it not I that commanded the people to be numbered? even I it is that have sinned and done evil indeed; but as for these sheep, what have they done? let thine hand, I pray thee, O LORD my God, be on me, and on my father’s house; but not on thy people, that they should be plagued.” 1 Chronicles 21:17 (KJV)
The leadership of King David was one that was full of compassion for his people. He loved and protected the people God had given him to rule over. He loved the LORD so much but became displeased with Him when Uzzah was struck. “And David was displeased, because the LORD had made a breach upon Uzza: wherefore that place is called Perez-uzza to this day.” 1 Chronicles 13:11 (KJV) The manner of the death of Uzzah displeased David so much. Many leaders hardly feel anything whenever they lose people especially those who are not related to them.
David was a true leader who cares about the souls under him. Isaiah 49:10 (KJV) tells us about a true leader, “They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them.” David had compassion on the sheep he was taking care of and would not let a lion nor bear take a lamb out of the herd. David had same compassion and mercy on his people all through his reign as King and protected his people against their enemies with his life.
David’s compassion came up again when he sinned against God by numbering Israel against all advice. David chose to fall in the hands of God whose mercy is great after been given three options. However, as the angel of the LORD executed judgement against the people, David was moved, “And David said unto God, Is it not I that commanded the people to be numbered? even I it is that have sinned and done evil indeed; but as for these sheep, what have they done? let thine hand, I pray thee, O LORD my God, be on me, and on my father’s house; but not on thy people, that they should be plagued.” 1 Chronicles 21:17 (KJV)
How many leaders of today care about the people they are leading? How many leaders would want to take the place of their subjects as David wished during the judgement passed on to him? True leaders care for the people. Let’s learn from David.
Bro Worthmore Aghanenu