While pastoring my campus fellowship as an undergraduate years ago, we were faced with the challenge of leaving our temporary place of worship on an urgent note. We did not have much in our bank account to make such move. Within two months, God helped us to mobilize for funds and get the fellowship her own property. That problem solved redefined my leadership till date.

Friend, the fastest way to gain leadership is through problem solving. Simply put, leaders are problem solvers. You prove your mettle as a leader when you rise to the occasion at times of challenges. But you lose people’s trust when you chicken out. The bulk stops at your table as a leader.

Jephthah rose to leadership through problem solving (Judges 11:1-11). Deborah rose as a mother in Israel through problem solving (Judges 5:6-7). David solved problem and rose to leadership (1 Samuel 18:6-9). Joseph became a prime minister through problem solving (Genesis 41:38-43).  In a world where problems abound, leadership opportunity is greatest.

The same Goliath that others were running away from, David ran towards. He saw the problem as an opportunity. He positioned himself as a problem solver. No wonder the women sang; “Saul has killed his thousands, David his ten thousands.” Like Saul, any leader who is not solving problem would soon lose his leadership (1 Samuel 18:8-9).

You need to use small problems to prepare yourself for bigger ones. David had already fought with the Lion and the Bear so killing Goliath appeared like a walk over (1 Samuel 17:34-36). If he had chickened out in the face of the lion and bear, he would have been unprepared for Goliath. Today’s victories are the seed for tomorrow’s victory.

You need to solve your personal problems if you hope to solve national or global problems. The things you are currently grappling with are the very opportunity you have to emerge into the leader you are meant to be. How are you solving your problems? Are you facing them headlong or excusing them away? Leadership is problem solving.

© ‘Demola Awoyele

Lead Pastor,

Destiny Impact Church

Akure, Nigeria