How can we apply the advice given to Rehoboam in our leadership roles? Rehoboam’s Crossroads 2 Chronicles 10:7: “They replied, ‘If you will be kind to this people and please them and speak good words to them, they will be your servants forever.’” Why This Matters for Leaders Today • God records Rehoboam’s story so we can avoid his mistake and embrace the wisdom he ignored (Romans 15:4). • Leadership rises or falls on how we treat those we serve (Proverbs 16:12). Listen Before You Lead • Rehoboam heard from two groups; he chose the loudest, not the wisest. • James 1:19: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” • Practical take-away: schedule regular, honest feedback sessions; resist knee-jerk decisions. Kindness Builds Loyalty • Verse 7 highlights “be kind… please them… speak good words.” • Proverbs 19:22—“What is desirable in a man is kindness.” • Kindness in leadership is strength under control, not weakness. Lighten the Load, Don’t Add to It • The elders urged compassion; the young men pushed for heavier burdens (2 Chronicles 10:10-11). • Matthew 11:28-30—Jesus models leadership that gives rest, not added weight. • Ask: “Will this policy free people to thrive, or shackle them with needless pressure?” Use Words That Give Grace • Ephesians 4:29—“Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up.” • Proverbs 15:1—“A gentle answer turns away wrath.” • Replace sarcasm and threats with encouragement and clear expectations. Lead as a Servant, Not a Despot • Mark 10:45—“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” • 1 Peter 5:2-3—Shepherd willingly, “not lording it over those entrusted to you.” • Servant leadership secures long-term allegiance far better than intimidation. Steps to Practice This Week 1. List three burdens your team carries; find one concrete way to lighten each. 2. Rewrite an upcoming directive in language that “speaks good words” (affirmation before instruction). 3. Schedule time to listen—no agenda, just questions. 4. Pray for a heart that values people more than position (Philippians 2:3-4). The Bottom Line Rehoboam lost a kingdom because he ignored God-given counsel. We gain influence when we: • Listen carefully • Lead kindly • Lift burdens • Speak grace Following these biblical principles turns authority into fruitful, God-honoring service. |
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