A Lesson in Leadership

Practically everywhere we see information on leadership. Books on how to be a better leader and self-help books abound. We see many articles on the Internet about leadership. Biographies are my favorite learning vehicles about leadership and leaders.

But the best lesson in leadership is a biblical story. King Solomon was generally a good leader, although he had made careless mistakes. Knowing this, he worried about his choice of a successor.

And who knows whether he will be wise or foolish? Either way, he’ll take over everything on earth I’ve worked so hard for. That doesn’t have any meaning either. A man can’t do anything better than eat and drink and be satisfied with his work. I’m finally seeing that those things also come from the hand of God. Without his help, who can eat or find pleasure?

Ecclesiastes 2: 19, 24 - 25 NirV

Solomon chose his son Rehoboam to succeed him. Rehoboam did not exercise sound judgment, although he had opportunities to be a strong, positive leader.

So the people sent for Jeroboam. He and the whole community of Israel went to Rehoboam. They said to him, “Your father put a heavy load on our shoulders. But now make our hard work easier. Make the heavy load on us lighter. Then we’ll serve you.” King Rehoboam asked the elders for advice. They had served his father Solomon while he was still living. They replied, “Serve them today. Give them what they are asking for. Then they’ll always serve you.” But Rehoboam didn’t accept the advice the elders gave him. Instead, he asked for advice from the young men who had grown up with him and were now serving him.

1 Kings 12: 3, 6 - 8 NIrV

In this instance, when the people wanted better working conditions, he rejected their claims. He failed to seek God.

All the people of Israel saw that the king refused to listen to them. So they answered the king. They said, “We don’t have any share in David’s royal family. We don’t have any share in Jesse’s son. People of Israel, let’s go back to our homes. David’s royal family, take care of your own kingdom!”

1 Kings 12: 16 NIrV

Rehoboam’s harsh response divided the kingdom. A spiritual decline soon followed. He didn’t take up the role of leader-servant. He knew what the people wanted, but he had failed to give his heart to their concerns. He ignored the advice of the elders.

Our role in leadership needs us to recognize the situation around us. Be aware of you subordinates’ concerns. Be a servant to them. Sk them how you can help. This builds a strong team.