Change in leadership cadre is a function of level of responsibility one accepts.
Saul’s leadership rating dropped at the moment he dodged the responsibility to confront Goliath.
In handing the responsibility to confront Goliath to David, he had exchanged his throne without knowing – David took over the throne at the point of accepting to go to save Israel. 1 Samuel 17:32-50.
David kept changing levels as he kept accepting responsibility first, as he went to keep his father’s flock where he confronted the lion and bear and secondly, as he confronted Goliath in battle.
Only leaders who risk their lives as servants will end as kings among the people.
Moses did – Exodus 32:31, 32.
Jesus did – John 10:11-13.
Are you a good shepherd or a hireling?
The answer is in your sense of responsibility towards the flock.