What steps can we take to avoid Abimelech's mistakes in our leadership roles? Setting the Scene “Now Abimelech son of Jerub-Baal went to his mother’s brothers in Shechem and said to them and to all his mother’s clan,” (Judges 9:1) One verse, yet it hints at a leadership disaster in the making. Abimelech’s very first step—approaching family to build a power base—sets a self-serving tone that soon erupts into violence and ruin. His story warns every leader: ambition disconnected from God’s purposes is deadly. Abimelech’s Fatal First Move • Leveraged family ties for personal gain • Ignored God’s prior calling on Israel’s leaders • Plotted in secrecy rather than seeking divine counsel • Chased authority without accountability Underlying Heart Issues 1. Self-exaltation (cf. Psalm 75:6-7) “Exaltation does not come from the east or the west… but God is Judge.” 2. Pride (Proverbs 16:18) 3. Envy and selfish ambition (James 3:14-16) 4. Contempt for the covenant community (1 Corinthians 3:16-17) Steps to Avoid His Mistakes • Submit to God’s call before stepping forward – “Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain.” (Psalm 127:1) • Pursue service, not status – “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Mark 10:43) • Practice transparent decision-making – “Walk as children of light… finding out what is pleasing to the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:8-10) • Guard the dignity and safety of those you lead – “Shepherd the flock of God among you… not lording it over those entrusted to you.” (1 Peter 5:2-3) • Build accountability structures – “In an abundance of counselors there is victory.” (Proverbs 24:6) • Cultivate humility through regular self-examination – “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith.” (2 Corinthians 13:5) • Depend on God’s timing rather than manipulation – “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may exalt you in due time.” (1 Peter 5:6) A Better Leadership Path Abimelech’s path began with self-promotion and ended in self-destruction. By anchoring our leadership in God’s call, refusing manipulation, and embracing humble service, we walk a completely different road—one that honors the Lord and blesses His people. |
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