John Maxwell said that “everything rises and falls on leadership.”

That’s one of the truest statements ever made.

We see this taking place amongst David’s mighty men.

Their response to Saul’s death shows us the great leader David was.

Backstory - Saul, the enemy of David and the current king sitting on the throne that was rightfully David’s, died in battle.

How would David’s men respond?

You would think that they’d be happy, excited that their leader was now going to be their king.

Earlier, when Saul went into the cave where David was hiding, one of the men said, “This is a great day! God has delivered your enemy into your hand!” (1 Samuel 26)

So we know David’s men wanted Saul dead.

When news came of Saul’s death…

Vs 11-12 - “Then David took hold of his clothes and tore them, and so did all the men who were with him. They mourned and wept and fasted till evening for Saul and his son Jonathan, and for the army of the Lord and for the nation of Israel, because they had fallen by the sword.”

David was broken over Saul’s death because, even though Saul was his enemy, he was still God’s appointed man as king.

It’s why David refused to kill him himself.

David’s heart broke.

Because of that, David’s men’s hearts broke as well.

Everything rises and falls on leadership.

This is so good for parents.

Whatever we model for our kids they will magnetize it.

EX: If you sow the seeds of bitterness, your kids will swing from the branches.

EX: If you sow a little gossip, your kids will reap a lot!

Proverbs 22:6 - leadership is the ability to create an appetite in others.

What appetites are you creating in those who follow you?