A leader cannot expect a follower to do more than he is willing to do. As leaders we cannot expect anyone to rise above our level of enthusiasm or sacrifice.

David is raising resources to build the temple of God. In verse 5 he asks, "Who then will offer willingly, consecrating himself today to the Lord?"

Every leader wants to know the answer to this question. Every leader wants to know, "who's with me? Who is crazy enough to charge this hill?" Verses 6-9 map out the answer to Davids question.

The Leaders go first. David gave. Then the leaders gave their freewill offerings followed by the leaders of the tribes...then the commanders of thousands and hundreds...then the officers....then the people.

The leaders went first. A leader must be willing to step out and go first. David inspired the leaders and the leaders inspired the people. Verse 9 captures the outcome..."Then the people rejoice because they had given willingly, for with a whole heart they had offered freely to the Lord."

Want to lead? Step out!

1 Chronicles 29:5-8