What steps can we take to ensure our leadership aligns with God's commandments? Setting the Scene: Jehoram’s Misstep 2 Kings 8:18: “And he walked in the ways of the kings of Israel as the house of Ahab had done, for Ahab’s daughter was his wife; and he did evil in the sight of the LORD.” Jehoram, king of Judah, abandoned Judah’s distinct calling by copying Israel’s corrupt rulers and marrying into Ahab’s family. The verse records this historical fact with absolute accuracy and exposes the core issue: leadership detached from God’s commandments drifts into evil. Lessons from a Tarnished Throne • Jehoram had heritage, position, and opportunity, yet a single unchecked influence—Ahab’s daughter—reshaped his entire reign. • A leader’s private alliances rapidly become public policy. • The people under that leader felt the consequences (cf. Proverbs 29:2). Step 1: Anchor Leadership in God’s Word • Deuteronomy 17:18-20 instructs every king to hand-copy the Law, “so that he may learn to fear the LORD his God.” • Practical action: schedule daily, systematic Scripture intake; memorize passages that deal with justice, mercy, and humility (Micah 6:8; Matthew 20:25-28). • Leadership decisions flow from whatever fills the mind; Scripture must be the primary content. Step 2: Guard the Influences Around Us • Psalm 1:1-2 warns against “the counsel of the wicked.” • Proverbs 13:20 promises wisdom to those who “walk with the wise.” • Audit books, podcasts, advisers, and close friendships, ensuring they elevate obedience rather than erode it. Step 3: Choose Obedient Partnerships • 2 Corinthians 6:14 commands, “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers.” • Jehoram’s marriage to Athaliah yoked him to a house defined by idolatry, steering Judah off course. • Apply this in hiring, board appointments, and ministry collaborations: shared faith and shared submission to God’s commands are non-negotiable. Step 4: Build Structures of Accountability • Hebrews 13:17 reminds leaders they “must give an account.” • Action points: – Establish clear oversight from elders or a board saturated in Scripture. – Invite periodic reviews of personal conduct and doctrinal faithfulness. – Require transparent financial practices. Step 5: Keep a Heart Sensitive to Correction • 2 Samuel 12 shows David restored because he received Nathan’s rebuke. • Develop a rhythm of inviting feedback, confessing sin quickly, and restoring fellowship. Step 6: Model Humble Dependence on the Lord • 1 Timothy 3:2: “An overseer must be above reproach.” • Characteristics such as sobriety, hospitality, and self-control become visible safeguards, pointing people back to Christ rather than to charisma. Putting It All Together When leadership is daily immersed in Scripture, surrounded by godly influences, bound to obedient partners, upheld by accountability, open to correction, and marked by humility, it aligns with God’s commandments. Jehoram’s negative example stands as a clear warning, while the consistent testimony of Scripture outlines a sure path for leaders who desire to honor the Lord and bless the people entrusted to them. |
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