In a previous entry, I explained the principle of servant leadership as it is in found in the Bible. Basically, it teaches that in order to be in authority over others, you have to view yourself as their servant. For those of us in power, it means that we ought not to seek selfish ends, but rather seek the good of the people under us.

Part of this servanthood is to listen to those below you. Though it’s true that we are not to succumb to certain types of influences, such as peer pressure: “Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil” (Exodus 23:2). But even still, it’s important for those in authority to keep in touch with the ones whom they are set over.

This principle is illustrated by Solomon’s son Rehoboam, king of Judah, who was faced with the decision of treating his subjects with kindness, mercy, and understanding, or using them for selfish means. Here’s the counsel that was given to him:

If thou wilt be a servant unto this people this day, and wilt serve them, and answer them, and speak good words to them, then they will be thy servants for ever. -1 Kings 12:7

But Rehoboam didn’t listen to the people, and made a horrible error. For the Bible says “the king hearkened not unto the people” (1 Kings 12:15). And as a result, 10 of the 12 tribes of Israel rebelled against him, left his kingdom, and set up their own king. In the end, it didn’t pay to try and squeeze every last drop of service from his people, and he ended up the loser.

The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. -Luke 22:25-26

• The Power of Kindness
• Servant Leadership
• God’s People as Peacemakers
• Obedience as a Key to Usefulness
• The Bronze Medal

Filed under:
Christian Devotions/Bible Study by Dean