The richness of leadership examples throughout the centuries and from so many perspectives amazes me. Recently a mentor challenged me to review Psalms 23 from the old testament of the bible from the perspective of the author’s (King David’s) ideals of a quintessential leader. I would argue that whether one views this from a religious perspective or simply looks for a strong definition of effective leadership, David—a master of both civil and military leadership—offers a perspective that is worthy of reflection in any age.
The concepts of leadership exemplified in Psalms 23 led me through a far bit of self-reflection on my own style and perspectives. I am convinced that those who put a high value in servant style leadership will share my enthusiasm and conviction over the qualities of leadership King David’s outlined in Psalm 23. As I walk through my observations in the next few weeks, I hope you similarly find this both thought provoking and challenging in your quest to provide the best personal and organizational leadership.
A LEADER “SHEPHERDS”
“The Lord is my Shephard…” Psalms 23:1a (New International Version Bible)
David defines his quintessential leader as a shepherd. What does a shepherding leader look like? What comes to mind when you think of a shepherd? I think of a protector, guide, navigator, and escort. Someone who is walking the same ground, knows the hazards ahead, and plans to guide everyone around those hazards. Someone who knows each of those who are under his charge and takes full responsibility for their wellbeing and success. Someone who notices an absence, injury or need and acts to rectify the situation. A shepherd knows when to push hard and when everyone has had enough.
A shepherd requires experience, knowledge, and an understanding of those being led. There must be a relationship. A relationship builds from a foundation of trust. A shepherd has the trust of those being led and that trust comes from demonstrated behavior that ultimately earned that trust.
A Shepard shares the experiences of those being led. They stand together in the same rain, walk through the same mud, wither under the same heat, and shiver in the same cold. And all the while the shepherd takes on more responsibility than anyone else by leading, protecting, guiding, and anticipating. Effective shepherding leaders acknowledge and accept they must experience increased challenges, demands, and hardship and share in the same experiences as those they are leading. It requires humility, strength, and endurance.
When I build a leadership model in my own mind, I understand why David wanted a shepherd as his leader. I want someone I trust to understand my needs. Someone who anticipates and navigates the team to success. Someone who takes the time to know everyone on the team. Someone who is present—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Someone who puts the same time and energy into it as I do.
Do you agree? How do you and your organization stack up when it comes to providing shepherding leadership? More importantly, would those being led in your organization recognize their leaders as shepherds? Are your leaders walking the same ground? Sharing the same experiences? Have they built the layers of trust and confidence to earn the title shepherd? If not, what would it take to change? If there is room to improve, are you willing personally and organizationally to invest the time and effort to shift the culture to one of trust, humility, close relationships, and confidence in those leading? Your people deserve high quality shepherds. Your organization’s success demands it.