If we want to do well in a task or project, or even a calling, we’ll need to surround ourselves with the right people. That’s why we should always ask God for His wisdom in our relationships. Rehoboam should have listened to the advice of his father Solomon’s wise and experienced inner circle. Instead he followed the advice of the people who agreed with his own opinion – and it proved fatal. On the other hand, David chose people who helped him develop his skills and who would give him honest, real advice. ‘These were…the mighty men whom David had, who strengthened themselves with him in his kingdom, with all Israel, to make him king, according to the word of the Lord concerning Israel’ (v. 10 NKJV). There are four important things here: 1) David built a strong inner circle before he needed it. He started building his team long before he was crowned. 2) He looked for people with varied gifts. He reached for them, rewarded them, and wasn’t intimidated by those who had skills that were different from or better than his. With the help of these ‘mighty men’, David felt ready for anything. 3) He cultivated loyalty. He drew people close to him, shared his life with them and, in the end, they were willing to lay their lives on the line for him. 4) He delegated responsibility based on ability. Because he was secure in his own identity and calling, David wasn’t afraid to delegate authority and responsibility to those around him. In the beginning some of his mighty men were misfits, but he transformed this ragtag group into a winning team (see 1 Samuel 22:1-2). David made his inner circle great, and in turn his inner circle made him great. So, look for the people who won’t just agree with you, but will give you good, encouraging, honest advice and who bring out the best in you.
