Almost every time we open our newspapers we are confronted by the downfall of someone in a prominent leadership position - whether through corruption, personal scandal or negligence. In an age of political sleaze, corporate greed and media spin there is a dearth of inspirational and righteous leaders. No wonder, if one were to appear he, or she, would be mocked for their lack of pragmatism.

Where are we to look to find role models in leadership? A surprisingly relevant case study becomes evident if we go back 3,000 years to a total beginner, jolted in his teens on a pathway to leadership. He has to learn everything through hard knocks - there was no help from his family.

King David’s path to power was complicated by the fact that the examples of leaders and kings around him were precisely what he should not be following – isn’t that where we are at now? Assuming that the leadership style recommended by the TV show ‘The Apprentice’ is not one we want to live in our lives!

This insightful and absorbing exploration of David’s life is our leadership apprenticeship course. From it we learn valuable lessons from a King who had an immeasurable impact on Israel’s history. Houston skilfully and adeptly bridges the cultural gap between the Old Testament and today, revealing the equivalent issues that arise for you, now. It’s a ‘must’ read if you involved in a leadership position in the workplace, church or home.

Pages: 224

Reviews

‘Tom Houston has distilled the wisdom of David and married it with his own profound experience of Christian leadership. … an easy book to commend, though it will bring pointed challenges to the life of the reader.’
Rob Norris, Fourth Presbyterian Church, Bethsaida, Maryland

Tom Houston’s timely book features impeccable Biblical scholarship on the Davidic era thoughtfully applied to the dilemmas and temptations that test contemporary consciences. King David comes alive in these pages as a pathfinder whose human failures and spiritual recoveries are highly relevant to public and private morality in the 21st century. Warmly recommended.
Jonathan Aitken

A very readable, helpful application of King David's life to the moral struggles, both public and private, of our own day.
Ronald J. Sider, President, Evangelicals for Social Action

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ISBN: 9781857929676
Catalogue code: N/A
Publisher: CHRISTIAN FOCUS - published 03/08/2006
Format: Paperback