The Making Of A Godly Leader: David’s Journey Series

THE MAKING OF A GODLY LEADER: DAVID’S JOURNEY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Samuel 16:1-13

Supporting Texts: Psalm 78:70-72, 1 Samuel 17, 1 Samuel 24, 2 Samuel 5:1-4, Acts 13:22, Luke 16:10

INTRODUCTION:

Leadership in God’s kingdom is never accidental. It is a journey shaped by process, forged in obscurity, tested through adversity, and crowned with divine approval. David's journey from shepherd to sovereign is one of the most powerful portraits of godly leadership in Scripture. Though overlooked by men, David was handpicked by God because of the quality of his heart.

The story of David is not just about a throne—it’s about the making of a man after God's own heart. His leadership was not built overnight. He was tested with lions and bears in private before he ever faced Goliath in public. He was trained to serve before he was permitted to rule. His rise was not through ambition but through submission, humility, and unwavering faith in God.

In this teaching, we will explore how God shapes leaders through seasons of obscurity, opposition, and obedience. David's journey gives every believer a blueprint for becoming a godly leader—one whose heart beats in rhythm with the will of God.

1. GOD CHOOSES BASED ON HEART, NOT APPEARANCE

David's journey began with divine selection, not human validation.

a) God Rejected Eliab and the Others Based on Inward Criteria (1 Samuel 16:7)

Man looks at the outward appearance, but God sees the heart. Leadership begins with the right heart.

b) David Was Not Even Considered by His Father (1 Samuel 16:11)

Even when men forget you, God remembers. Divine selection overrides human oversight.

c) God Instructed Samuel to Anoint David (1 Samuel 16:12-13)

The oil flows where God sees readiness, not where men see greatness.

d) David Was Anointed in the Presence of His Brothers

God prepares a table before you in the presence of those who underestimated you.

Biblical Example: Joseph was sold by his brothers, yet he became a ruler because of divine favour and integrity (Genesis 41:39-41).

2. GOD TRAINS IN OBSCURITY BEFORE PUBLIC PROMOTION

David’s training ground was the field, not the palace.

a) He Learned Responsibility Tending His Father's Sheep (1 Samuel 17:15)

Faithfulness in little things qualifies a man for greater responsibility.

b) He Killed a Lion and a Bear While No One Was Watching (1 Samuel 17:34-36)

Private victories prepare leaders for public triumphs.

c) His Relationship With God Was Built in Solitude (Psalm 23:1)

True leadership flows from intimacy with God, not public affirmation.

d) God Tests Character in Secret Before He Displays Power in Public

The wilderness is a classroom for future kings.

Biblical Example: Moses spent 40 years in the desert before leading Israel out of Egypt (Exodus 3:1-12).

3. GOD USES ADVERSITY TO SHAPE THE CHARACTER OF A LEADER

David's greatest growth came through the furnace of affliction.

a) Saul’s Jealousy Drove David into the Wilderness (1 Samuel 18:8-9)

Opposition is often the tool God uses to prepare leaders.

b) David Refused to Kill Saul When He Had the Chance (1 Samuel 24:6)

A godly leader trusts God’s timing, not human opportunity.

c) He Endured False Accusations and Rejection Without Retaliation

Leaders must develop thick skin and a tender heart.

d) Ziklag Tested David’s Leadership Under Pressure (1 Samuel 30:6)

He encouraged himself in the Lord when no one else could.

Biblical Example: Paul endured beatings, betrayal, and imprisonment, yet remained faithful to his calling (2 Corinthians 11:23-28).

4. GODLY LEADERSHIP IS ROOTED IN HUMILITY AND SERVANTHOOD

David’s leadership was marked by submission, not self-promotion.

a) David Served Saul Faithfully Even While Being Hunted (1 Samuel 18:10-16)

A godly leader honours authority even when mistreated.

b) He Took Instructions From God, Not Just From His Emotions (1 Samuel 30:8)

A spiritual leader inquires of the Lord before taking action.

c) He Waited Patiently for the Throne (2 Samuel 2:4; 5:4)

He reigned in Hebron first before reigning in Jerusalem. Godly promotion comes in phases.

d) When David Became King, He Led With Integrity of Heart and Skillful Hands (Psalm 78:72)

Leadership is both spiritual and practical—character and competence.

Biblical Example: Jesus washed His disciples’ feet to show that greatness is measured by service (John 13:13-15).

5. GODLY LEADERS KEEP SEEKING GOD EVEN AFTER SUCCESS

David’s dependence on God did not end after becoming king.

a) He Inquired of the Lord Frequently (2 Samuel 5:19, 23)

A godly leader doesn't assume—he asks.

b) He Desired God's Presence Above His Position (Psalm 27:4)

His throne was not his priority; God's presence was.

c) Even in His Failures, He Returned to God in Brokenness (Psalm 51:1-17)

True leaders repent deeply and return quickly.

d) God Called David “A Man After My Own Heart” (Acts 13:22)

The hallmark of godly leadership is alignment with God's heart.