Leadership Qualities: Relationships Part 1
Abigail vs. Nabal-1 Samuel 25:1-42 (positive and negative)
Relationship Lessons from Abigail
- Risky initiative: Abigail took the first step with David to resolve a sticky situation.
- Emotional security: Abigail demonstrated inward security in her identity.
- Genuine humility: Abigail submitted to David by falling as his feet and seeking his favor.
- Personal responsibility: Abigail took responsibility for Nabal and explained his wicked behavior.
- Selfless attitude: Abigail focused completely on David’s welfare and future success.
- Generous spirit: Abigail gave David and his men a choice gift for their journey.
- Forthright approach: Abigail directly asked David to forgive Nabal.
- Quick wit: Abigail suggested David didn’t want a slaughter on his conscience.
- Eternal perspective: Abigail saw David and their relationship from a divine viewpoint.
- Kind affirmation: Abigail sought David’s benefit and gave him encouraging words.
The Stuff Good Relationships Are Made Of
Effective leaders grow their relational skills in the following manner:
- Have a Leader’s Head: Understand People. Abigail knew how to appeal to David in order to accomplish her goal.
- Have a Leader’s Heart: Love People. Abigail assumed the role of a servant, submitting to both David and her husband. She felt secure enough to serve.
- Have a Leader’s Hand: Help People. Abigail gave David and his men what they needed. She added value to him and thereby saved the life of her family.
Join me next time for Leadership Qualities: Relationships Part 2
