A popular phrase that has found its way into literature is “Transformational Leadership”. If we are looking for a Bible character that fits this description, it would be David. While hiding in the cave of Adullam, two groups of people resorted to him. The first group were his relatives. This was a wise step since Saul could have attacked them because of David. Our text shows us another group who resorted to David. Call them the misfits in society, and you would be right. They were the lowliest, burdened with one problem or another. They all willingly submitted to the leadership of David. Many of these people eventually became mighty men of valour.
It is interesting to note that David did not woo any of those people. The truth is that people love to follow leaders who understand their plight. They find it easy to bond with leaders who have been where they are, and know their kind of struggles. The seemingly down and out in society found a kindred spirit in David. The people found someone who could give voice to their frustration in life and probably work at easing their pains. Leaders who practice a hierarchical model of leadership, setting themselves on top of the pyramid and expecting the followers to lick their boots make a bad job of their calling. The true manifestation of effective leadership is humility and service.
