Four Things that Made David a Great Leader

2 Samuel 5:1-3; 2 Samuel 1:1-27; 2 Samuel 2:1-32; 2 Samuel 3:1-39; 2 Samuel 4:1-12

INTRODUCTION: Many of the problems we face today could be solved with the presence of solid, scriptural leadership. This is true in government, in homes, and in churches. David proved himself in the shadows of the sheepfold, was anointed in the privacy of his father’s home, and became the hero on the battlefield against Goliath, but he gained the approval of the nation of Israel in correspondence with his growth as a leader.

I. HE STOOD AGAINST EVIL (2 Samuel 1:1-16; 2 Samuel 4:1-12)

A. At the Death of Saul (2 Samuel 1:1-16)

1. The true story of Saul’s death (1 Samuel 31:1-4)
2. The false report of Saul’s death (2 Samuel 1:1-10)
3. The character of David (2 Samuel 1:11-16)

B. At the Death of Ishbosheth (2 Samuel 4:1-12)

1. The death of Ishbosheth (2 Samuel 4:1-7)
2. The report given to David (2 Samuel 4:8)
3. The character of David (2 Samuel 4:9-12)

II. HE LOOKED FOR THE GOOD IN OTHERS (2 Samuel 1:17-27)

A. The Reality of Saul’s Life

1. Saul’s rise to authority was a rejection of God’s authority.
2. Saul sought to kill David on multiple occasions.

B. The Lamentation of David (2 Samuel 1:17-27)

1. He identified Saul as the beauty of Israel (2 Samuel 1:19).
2. He declared that Saul was lovely and pleasant in his life (2 Samuel 1:23).
3. He declared Saul’s strength (2 Samuel 1:23, 27).

III. HE PATIENTLY WAITED FOR GOD’S TIMING (2 Samuel 2:1-32)

A. David’s Dependence Upon Prayer (2 Samuel 2:1-7)

1. Although David was God’s appointed king, he desired God’s leadership.
2. David sought God about going into the cities of Judah (2 Samuel 2:1-3).
3. The men of Judah anointed David king (2 Samuel 2:4).
4. David made an appeal to the men of Jabeshgilead (2 Samuel 2:5-7).

B. The Rise of a New King (2 Samuel 2:8-32)

1. Ishbosheth was anointed king over Israel (2 Samuel 2:8-11).
2. War ensued between the men of David and the men of Ishbosheth (2 Samuel 2:12-24).
3. After the loss of life, Abner appealed to stop the war (2 Samuel 2:25-32).

IV. HE WAS WILLING TO FORGIVE (2 Samuel 3:1-39)

A. David’s League with Abner (2 Samuel 3:1-16)

1. There was long war between the houses of Saul and of David (2 Samuel 3:1).
2. Abner made himself strong for the house of Saul (2 Samuel 3:6).
3. Abner had a falling out with Ishbosheth (2 Samuel 3:7-11).
4. Abner appealed to David (2 Samuel 3:12-16).

B. Abner’s Appeal to Israel (2 Samuel 3:17-21)

1. He appealed to the elders (2 Samuel 3:17-18).
2. He appealed to Benjamin (2 Samuel 3:19).
3. He promised David to go to the rest of Israel (2 Samuel 3:20-21).

C. Abner’s Murder (2 Samuel 3:22-27)

1. Joab learned of Abner’s visit (2 Samuel 3:22-23).
2. Joab warned David concerning Abner (2 Samuel 3:24-25).
3. Joab called for Abner and murdered him (2 Samuel 3:26-27).

D. David’s Remorse and Response (2 Samuel 3:28-39)

1. David denounced Joab (2 Samuel 3:28-31).
2. David lamented over Abner (2 Samuel 3:32-34).
3. David’s grace and care moved the people (2 Samuel 3:35-39).

CONCLUSION: David demonstrated four prominent traits of anyone desiring to lead: (1) he stood for that which was right, (2) he looked for and saw the good in others, (3) he was willing to give time for God’s plan to come to fruition, and (4) he was willing to forgive and work with flawed individuals. God is still looking for leaders today, but no one will lead without these qualities.