The book of Psalms found in the Bible is a collection of poems. It is Hebrew poetry. The individual psalms were often sung and recited as prayers or praise to God. Most of the Psalms found in the Bible are penned by King David of Israel. Psalm 101 is one such poem. It is a brief psalm, only eight verses long.
David addresses his poem of prayer to Yahweh. In the opening four verses he makes five declarations. Each declaration begins with the phrase “I will . . . ” David as a leader is taking a stand before God as to the type of leader he wants to be. But don’t forget that this is a prayer also. While David is declaring his intent he is also trusting in the steadfast love of God and the justice of God to make this true of him (see v.1). These are prayer declarations. David is committing himself to lead with integrity. Look at the declarations below.
I will sing of steadfast love and justice
I will ponder the way that is blameless
I will walk with integrity of heart within my house
I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless
I will know nothing of evil
I would suggest that we as leaders pray the same declarations before God today. We can’t make these come true in our own strength. We need the grace of the gospel that is in Jesus Christ. Thus, why we pray. Prayer is always an act of dependence. But if the above declarations were becoming more true each day of you and I, think of the difference it would make in our leadership-and the blessing it would be to those we influence. Lead well!