Leadership Lessons: Solomon
How to build influence as a leader? Well, you make sound decisions using the listen – discern – act process.
The Story
You’ve heard this story from First Kings 3. In fact, it’s the source of the phrase “split the baby” and variants such as split the difference.
Basically, you have two witnesses of questionable character, conflicting stories, and no other witness.
So, what was the purpose of the split-the-baby order? Obviously, to force an emotional reaction and identity who was lying.
Moreover, the threat was valid because Solomon already had three opponents put to death by this point!
How to Build Influence
Solomon asked for discernment, First Kings 3.9. Now, soon after he uses this threat to discern the truth.
So, what was the outcome? Well, according to First Kings 3.28, the outcome was dramatic.
First, everyone was talking about it “… all Israel heard …”
Second, the decision increased their respect for Solomon, as God had promised him in First Kings 3.13.
Third, everyone honored him because “… they saw the wisdom of God was in (him) to form sound judgment” First Kings 3.28.
Therefore, forming decisions that are just and equitable are how to build influence as a leader. Also, a rational decision process is a trait of an impactful leader.
And, following this incident, Solomon concluded that a precept-driven life receives honor thus has influence, Proverbs 22.4. Thus, what he learned in practice he recorded in the Proverbs.
Leadership Insight
A leader needs influence in order to function effectively.
In addition, a leader is influential to the extent he/she develops a sound character and good judgment.
Actually, one component of leadership influence is sensitivity to the intentions and emotions of others.
Otherwise, split-the-difference near the end of tense negotiations isn’t effective because the leader misses important verbal and emotional signals.
Also, the point of this story isn’t about threat as the only negotiating tool because impactful leaders use multiple tools to handle various challenges.
Ultimately, influence comes through a precept-driven life that consistently uses good judgment when taking action.
Apply This Today!
The quality of a leader’s character drives decision soundness.
Discernment isn’t some magical quality.
Instead, discernment is the leader’s ability to use clear reasoning, combined with sensitivity to what’s happening by listening with the heart.
Thanks for visiting. Also, please contact me if you have comments: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com
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