In what ways can we ensure our leadership aligns with God's will? Setting the Scene “Ahaz was twenty years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem sixteen years. And he did not do what was right in the eyes of the LORD, as David his father had done.” (2 Chronicles 28:1) A single verse frames an entire reign: Ahaz sat on David’s throne yet chose a very different path. His failure marks out clear boundaries for leaders who long to walk in step with God. Where Ahaz Went Wrong - Rejected the standard of “what was right in the eyes of the LORD” (v. 1) - Imitated surrounding nations and their gods (28:2–3) - Sacrificed integrity—and even his own children—to cultural pressures - Trusted political alliances over covenant faithfulness (28:16–21) Principles for God-Aligned Leadership - Pursue God’s heart above all else. “The LORD has sought out a man after His own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14). - Measure every decision by Scripture. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). - Guard personal holiness. “An overseer… must be blameless… self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined” (Titus 1:7-8). - Lead as a servant. “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant… just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:26-28). - Stay accountable. “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). - Depend on prayerful wisdom. “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God… and it will be given” (James 1:5). Practical Steps for Today - Set aside unhurried daily time in the Word, letting it set the agenda. - Pray over every decision, large or small, before moving forward. - Invite trusted believers to speak correction and encouragement. - Regularly review motives: keep God’s glory, not personal gain, at the center. - Model repentance quickly when sin surfaces; hidden faults sink leadership. - Practice visible acts of service that place others’ needs first. - Uphold justice and mercy in policies, budgeting, and conflict resolution. Encouraging Promises for Faithful Leaders - “For the eyes of the LORD roam to and fro over all the earth to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him.” (2 Chronicles 16:9) - “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) - “Hezekiah did what was right in the eyes of the LORD” (2 Chronicles 29:2)—proof that a godly course is possible even after Ahaz. - “Be steadfast… always abounding in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58) |
    |