Are you where you need to be?

2 Samuel 11:1

David, the king of Israel, has accomplished much. He’s conquered enemies, has a loyal following, and he’s brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. He’s been the recipient of God’s favor. You might say he’s reached the pinnacle of success. But, the first verse of chapter 11 hints at a problem.

In the spring of the year, the time when kings go out to battle, David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel. And they ravaged the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained at Jerusalem. (2 Sam. 11:1)

Right away we sense there may be an issue. It is the time of year “when kings go out to battle.” But David, the king, doesn’t go. He stays home while others head to the fight. Hanging back and and not joining in the struggle doesn’t align with the expectations of kings. David is not where he’s supposed to be, and as we will see next week, this gets him into big trouble.

Family businesses also have seasons, where people are expected to perform certain activities or fulfill key roles. For example, you may need to be available for a customer at a key moment, or on the production line during your busiest time. Your season might involve preparing for an upcoming project, making sure equipment is ready to go, or being available to your team members during a major initiative. In short, you are expected to be present at a particular time and place, or in a particular way, in the family business.

What are the periods of intense activity or preparation in your family business? How have expectations been communicated about where, when, and how people need to show up?