II Chronicles​ 32

II Chronicles 32:6-8:
Then he set military captains over the people, gathered them together to him in the open square of the city gate, and gave them encouragement, saying​
​7 “Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid nor dismayed before the king of Assyria, nor before all the multitude that is with him; for there are more with us than with him. 
​8 With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God, to help us and to fight our battles.” And the people were strengthened by the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.

​And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah the king of Judah said. Just about anyone can lead when things are going well. The true test of leadership is how you lead during a crisis. I see three significant things that Hezekiah did that allowed his team to succeed in the face of great adversity. First, he set up accountability systems. In verse 6, he established a system that will allow people to have someone to speak to about their concerns. During a crisis situation, you need to allow people to share their mind, but not to the extent that they pollute the minds of others. These officers were probably well trained in the art of keeping peace, but they also understood the bigger picture – you serve the Kingdom and not complainers. Two, Hezekiah gave an accurate assessment of the situation to the people. In verses 7 and 8, he does not try to sugar coat what was going on. He told them: This is what it looks like: A vast army has surrounded us. This is what we have. We have a power greater than the challenge we are facing. This is what we will do. We will be strong and not get discouraged because we have the power needed within us to win. Third, he encouraged the people. The latter part of verse 8 notes, “And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah the king of Judah said.” Leaders who address the challenges quickly, truthfully and decisively will inspire courage and action in the people they serve. If you wait to take “perfect action,” the opportunity to galvanize and mobilize your team may pass you by. --Dave Jenkins Jr