Leadership Lessons: Solomon
Acting with an agenda helps a new leader build authority. Similarly, acting decisively and fairly build credibility for a leader.
There was no question about Solomon’s authority to be king. First Kings 2.46 paraphrase
The Story
Truly, leaders must be strategy driven. Thus, to act with an agenda.
Otherwise, their actions are responses to immediate problems instead of execution of strategy.
Acting with an Agenda
Now, in First Kings we see Solomon acting decisively. And, the actions were based on an agenda, First Kings 1.5-9.
First, Solomon replaced an unfaithful priest.
Second, he eliminated a military officer because of a prior isue, First Kings 2.35.
Third, he placed someone under house arrest, First Kings 2.36. Finally, Solomon dealt harshly with him for breaking the agreement.
Leading with Balance
As such, we see several administrative actions early in Solomon’s reign. And, we see him balancing justice and mercy in those decisions.
Fortunately, Solomon later described these skills in Proverbs 1.3. Basically, he says we’re to use good judgment. In turn, it should reflect justice, that is doing right. Also, mercy, that is showing compassion.
In addition, he acted on purpose and with accountability. Thus, impactful leaders act with clear purpose. But, they hold themselves and others accountable.
Leadership Insight
Arguably, early-term behavior sets the tone for a leader. Why? Because it signals what life is going to be like.
Additionally, early-term actions indicate the leader’s priorities and character traits.
For Solomon, the early decisions revealed a leader who was acting with an agenda. He made critical appointments. Also, he held several accountable for their past misbehavior.
Most importantly, he carried out those actions decisively and quickly.
To be an impactful leader, I should adopt these same traits.
Impact of Decisiveness
What’s the outcome?
For Solomon, it set his authority. So, there was no question about who was in charge.
Similarly, impactful leaders build influence through decisiveness. And, discernment. Also, accountability. Along with care for others.
All this, as guided by an agenda that’s clearly communicated.
Now, impactful leaders use several leadership traits. For instance, see below.
Apply This Today!
Impactful leaders come out swinging, but with clear planning.
Moreover, impactful leaders have a bias toward taking action.
Remember, decisiveness can be positive or negative. Hence, the need for a just character to guide reasoning and deciding.
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