Faith & Family Business
Giving permission to the next generation (1 Samuel 17:37)
Welcome to my third Faith and Family Business series, focusing on the Biblical King David. David’s story explores a full range of emotions and experiences in life, offering insights about ourselves and others in work and family. My hope is that your own faith, family, and understanding of your family business will be enriched by considering David's story.
In the last few weeks, we’ve begun to see David as someone who has leadership potential. A test of that potential is about to come in his battle with Goliath, but first David needs to convince King Saul that he is ready to fight. Saul is hesitant, noting David is young, and that Goliath has years of battle experience.
And David said, “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” And Saul said to David, “Go, and the Lord be with you!” (1 Sam. 17:37)
David gives examples of why he is a credible fighter. While he doesn’t have specific experience fighting a giant, he has other battles, encounters, and skills that have prepared him for the task. Saul finally relents, giving young David permission to fight Goliath.
King Saul’s struggle is similar to the senior generation’s major challenge in a family enterprise: handing off responsibilities to the next generation, knowing they have never experienced the same business issues and problems. And since the company is now bigger and more complex, you may be even more concerned about their level of preparation and abilities.
When you assumed your parent’s responsibilities in the family business, did you feel ready? What preparation, or permission, do you need to offer the next generation as they transition into leadership?