Rehoboam had just become King. The people came to him to request a lighter load of harsh slavery and work compared to what they had suffered under his father. He told the people he needed three days to think while he consulted with the advisors who had served his father. The advisors told him to encourage and give the people a favorable answer and if he did the people would be dedicated servants to him. Rehoboam invited the people back, rejecting the advice and confirmed.
“My father made your yoke heavy; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.” So the king did not listen to the people. (1 Kings 12: 13-15 NIV)
Rehoboam rejected an opportunity to demonstrate Servant Leadership and his reign was full of wars and fighting.
Whether you work in ministry, church, missions or the business world, a one person show does not work. We can’t be in it for ourselves. Christ set the standard of service for all leaders.
Leadership is about others. Being called to Leadership is an awesome journey. You’ll have mountaintop experiences. You will be thrilled to see others grow and serve. You’ll walk through some valleys. You will feel the pain and hurt of setback. You will also know that the ‘Leadership calling to serve’ is a life changing opportunity.
Have an awesome and prayerful week.
Laurie D. Kennedy Biblical Leadership Coach