David and Goliath - Lessons on Authenticity

While teaching leadership styles, I was reminded of the story of David and Goliath.

Thousands of years ago, the Israelites were threatened by the Philistines. Among the Philistines, one person stood out - a giant named Goliath. He challenged the Jews to defeat him in a duel.

For forty days, he tormented the Isrealites and no one volunteered. Eventually, a short, young, and relatively weak shepherd boy came forward. His name was David.

Despite being offered the royal armor by King Saul, David chose to take only one weapon with him, his slingshot. He had mastered it while protecting his sheep.

When David walked onto the battlefield, Goliath laughed. On one side there was a giant clad in the finest armor. On the other side stood a small boy with a slingshot and five stones.

However, David stood his ground. He slung a stone that struck Goliath on the forehead. The giant fell.

David didn’t lead by imitation. He didn’t try to become a soldier. He led with what he knew, who he was, and with a purpose that was beyond personal glory.

Authentic leadership is about knowing who you are, knowing what you are capable of, and acting in that way.