How should leaders today heed the warning in Isaiah 22:15? A Glimpse into Isaiah’s Jerusalem Isaiah 22 places us inside Jerusalem during a national crisis. The city’s leaders have turned a blind eye to the Lord, choosing self-interest over dependence on Him. In the middle of that indictment the prophet singles out one man—Shebna, the palace steward. A Warning to a Self-Serving Steward “Thus says the Lord GOD of Hosts: ‘Go, say to this steward, to Shebna who is in charge of the palace…’ ” (Isaiah 22:15). The verses that follow (vv. 16-19) reveal Shebna’s arrogance—building a grand tomb for himself, leveraging public trust for private glory—only to hear God promise to hurl him away and replace him. Key Lessons Leaders Must Grasp • Stewardship, not ownership – 1 Corinthians 4:2: “Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” – Shebna managed the king’s house yet acted as if it were his own. • Humility before honor – Proverbs 15:33; 16:18. Pride invites a fall; humility invites God’s favor. • Accountability is inevitable – Romans 14:12: “Each of us will give an account of himself to God.” • God opposes self-promotion and rewards servant leadership – Matthew 23:12; Matthew 20:25-28. Practical Ways Leaders Today Can Heed the Warning 1. Guard motives daily • Ask: Am I seeking God’s glory or personal advancement? (Colossians 3:23-24) 2. Live transparently • Maintain open books, clear communication, and consistent character. 3. Prioritize the people over perks • Shepherds feed the flock; they do not feed on it (Ezekiel 34:2-4). 4. Cultivate accountability structures • Invite godly peers to speak truth before blind spots become scandals. 5. Make decisions with eternity in view • Luke 12:42-48 ties faithful stewardship to Christ’s return and reward. What Happens When Leaders Ignore the Warning • Loss of position and influence (Isaiah 22:19). • Public disgrace—God exposes what pride tries to hide. • Ripple effects on those they lead—nations, churches, and families suffer. Christ, the Perfect Steward Jesus embodies everything Shebna rejected: • He “did not come to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:28). • He finished the work the Father gave Him (John 17:4). • He humbled Himself and was exalted by God (Philippians 2:5-11). Leaders imitate Him by embracing a cross before expecting a crown. A Closing Charge Lead as stewards, not owners. Let humility, transparency, and service mark every decision. Remember Shebna’s tomb—a monument to self that never housed its builder—and let the warning of Isaiah 22:15 preserve you from the same fate. |
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