“They helped David against the band of raiders, for they were all mighty men of valor and were commanders in the army. For from the day men came to David to help him, until there was a great army, like an army of God.”
-1 Chronicles 12:21-22 (ESV)

Leadership expert John Maxwell claims that there are no “Lone Ranger” leaders. Our takeaway from this statement is that you are not leading anybody if you are alone. Think of any highly effective leader in sports, business, or ministry, and you will find someone surrounded by a strong inner circle. Hire the best people you can find, develop them as much as possible, and turn everything over to them. When you have the right people in place, the potential for success skyrockets. Those closest to a leader determine success or failure. The leader can make a huge impact if those people are strong, capable, and motivated. If they are weak, he cannot.

Let’s examine how David pulled core people together who helped him succeed. First, David began building an inner circle long before he needed it. His leadership style attracted the strongest leaders of his day. They sought him out; David did not have to look for them. Second, David attracted people with a variety of gifts. He wanted leaders with experience and a varied skill set. With these kinds of men, David felt ready for anything. Third, David demanded loyalty. His men were willing to give their lives for him. They stayed with him in the good times and the bad. Fourth, David delegated responsibility based on ability. He wanted men who would take charge and follow through. David gave his men a job and got out of the way, recognizing that his way was not the only way. When God wants a leader to do something, He will provide that leader with the right people to get the job done. That was true for David, and it will be true for you.

Heavenly Father, give me the wisdom and courage to be the leader You have called me to be. I don’t want to be a Lone Ranger. Help me to see the value of a strong inner circle. May it always be about Your glory and not my personal success. In Jesus’ name, Amen.