How can we ensure our leaders align with God's will, unlike Jehoahaz? Learning from Jehoahaz’s Short Reign “Jehoahaz was twenty-three years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem three months. His mother’s name was Hamutal daughter of Jeremiah of Libnah.” (2 Kings 23:31) “He did evil in the sight of the LORD, just as his fathers had done.” (2 Kings 23:32) • A mere three-month reign shows how quickly a leader who ignores God’s ways can be removed. • Scripture presents Jehoahaz as another link in a tragic chain of rulers who “did evil,” underscoring the importance of alignment with God’s will. God’s Standards for Leaders • Deuteronomy 17:18-20 – The king must continually read God’s law “so that he may learn to fear the LORD his God … and not turn aside from the command.” • Proverbs 29:2 – “When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; but when the wicked rule, the people groan.” • 1 Samuel 12:14-15 – Obedience brings blessing; rebellion brings God’s hand against ruler and people alike. Guardrails We Can Establish • Saturate leadership selection with earnest, united prayer (1 Timothy 2:1-2). • Evaluate candidates by clear biblical qualifications—honesty, justice, humility, sexual purity, stewardship (Exodus 18:21; Titus 1:6-8). • Promote accountability structures: shared leadership, transparent finances, godly counselors (Proverbs 11:14). • Confront sin promptly and biblically when it surfaces (Galatians 6:1; Matthew 18:15-17). • Encourage public reading and honoring of Scripture in civic and church settings (Joshua 1:8; Nehemiah 8:1-3). Personal Habits That Guide Public Policy • Model obedience: citizens who walk in truth cultivate an environment where righteous leaders can flourish (Micah 6:8). • Vote and speak based on biblical convictions, not mere party loyalties (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Support leaders when they uphold righteousness; voice dissent respectfully when they depart from it (Acts 5:29; Romans 13:1-4). Anchoring Our Hope in the Greater King • Even the best earthly leaders fall short; ultimate confidence rests in Christ, the flawless King whose throne is forever (Isaiah 9:6-7; Revelation 19:16). • By submitting to His reign daily, believers become salt and light that influence nations toward leaders who reflect His character (Matthew 5:13-16). |
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