Solution Oriented Leadership
Leaders are not defined by the problems they face but by how they respond to them. In 1 Samuel 17, David shows us a powerful leadership principle: he was solution oriented, not problem oriented. While everyone else focused on the size of Goliath, David focused on the promise of God.
Perspective matters. The way we think about our problems determines how we move forward. When leaders constantly talk about problems, those problems begin to shape their identity. Problems talk to us, and it is important to choose carefully what we listen to. I don’t want to be known as a complainer. I want to be known as someone who is positive, faith filled, and solution minded.
The more problems I solve, the more successful I become. Leaders are called to be assets, not liabilities. When we focus on the problem, we often become the problem. But when we focus on the solution and the end result, clarity and direction begin to emerge. Vision allows us to see the end from the beginning.
David did not run from the problem. He ran toward it. What pushed others back positioned him for promotion. Our promotion is often hidden inside the very problem we are trying to avoid. God uses opposition to develop us, strengthen us, and move us forward.
We must keep the promise before our eyes. In 1 Samuel 17:29, David speaks of the “cause.” That cause represents purpose, reward, and destiny. No problems mean no goals, and no growth. Leaders who are reaching toward something that is impossible without God learn to live in the trust zone.
The people we surround ourselves with matter. Only associate with positive, solution oriented people. Complainers are not solution oriented, and they will eventually drain vision and momentum. Leaders need the right people in their lives. People who believe in them, love them, and push them toward God’s promises.
Opposition should never stop us. Be strong and do it. Do not magnify your problem; magnify the promise. David did not focus on how big Goliath was or how small he was. He saw opportunity where others saw fear.
Words matter. We stop thoughts with words. Speaking problems without the Word only brings torment, but speaking the Word of God brings breakthrough. We do not win spiritual battles with natural strength. Victory comes through the supernatural; declaring God’s Word daily.
Scripture reminds us of four important truths:
There will be problems (John 16:33).
Do not see problems as negative; see them as challenges (Romans 8:28).
Do not run from problems (Psalm 55:4).
Ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom and solutions (John 16:13).
Making a decision and acting on it are not the same thing. Leaders act. Never come with a problem unless you are also bringing a solution.
There are four kinds of people: those with no goals, those with goals but stopped by opposition, those with goals who focus only on problems, and those with goals who come up with solutions. Leaders must be the fourth kind.
David kept his eyes on the promise. Not on the problem. Not on the noise. Not on the giant. And that focus positioned him for victory.
We are solution oriented.