The Leadership ChallengeSample

Challenge 19

ISSACHAR: UNDERSTANDING THE TIMES

READ: 1 Chronicles 12:1–40

We can learn a great deal about leadership from the examples of good and bad leaders in the Scriptures. But some lessons are not as obvious. We might even overlook them during a quick reading. Today’s reading is such a case. In this section the Chronicler is recounting the names of the warriors who assisted David during his rise to power. In the middle of what could become a tedious list of unpronounceable names we find verse 32: “Of Issachar, men who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do, 200 chiefs, and all their kinsmen under their command.” The Chronicler commends them for their ability to understand the times—the nature of the culture around them. This goes beyond just understanding; these men also give Israel wise counsel about what to do. Where did they get these abilities? In Jewish tradition, the people of the tribe of Issachar were known for their learning, particularly of the Torah, the Law of God.

Leaders must understand the culture in which they are called to lead and also to shape that culture. Christian military leaders need to spend time cultivating a deep understanding of God’s Word so they can translate its principles into wisdom everyone around them can understand. What other qualities of a warrior do you find in our reading?