This final blog of the four again deals with situational awareness and the discernment necessary for success in ministry and leadership, but centers on the issue of personal responsibility. Again, I want to turn to David to glean a final principle – that we can understand and accept our responsibilities, in the face of our obstacles and opportunities.
David understood his challenges and opportunities. He relied on his faith and his God-given abilities. As David stood, looking into the face of his fierce adversary, Goliath, he determined he would accept his personal responsibility. Others stood paralyzed with fear, choosing not to enter into the fray; not so David. He realized he had a responsibility to stand up and fight for God. In 1 Samuel 17:32, David said to Saul, “Let no man’s heart fail because of him; your servant will go and fight with this Philistine.”
David fulfilled a second personal responsibility. This was to those the battle would affect who were not even there that day. If the Philistines won, they would have plundered the Israelite cities. Many innocent women and children would suffer gravely. David saw this bigger picture. He saw it as his responsibility. He came against the giant and a giant disaster was averted! Here is the point. When we accept our responsibilities to engage in the challenge, there are many waiting on the other side of our obedience. I know it is not always easy to face our giants. I have been there, as I am sure you have. Understand, however, there is always a ripple effect to what we do or neglect to do. We need to look beyond the immediate battle and discern the larger consequences, both positive and negative. This means we will often make the hard choice and be responsible, at whatever the cost. We will march into the valley, face our giant and walk out with victory firmly in our grasp.