What lessons can leaders today learn from the fate of Jehoiakim in Jeremiah 22:18? Jehoiakim’s Final Obituary “Therefore this is what the LORD says concerning Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah: ‘They will not mourn for him, saying, “Ah, my brother!” or “Ah, my sister!” They will not mourn for him, saying, “Ah, lord!” or “Ah, his majesty!”’” (Jeremiah 22:18) What Went Wrong • Jeremiah 22:17 exposes his heart: “You have eyes and heart only for your own dishonest gain, for shedding innocent blood, and for oppression and extortion.” • Verse 19 announces his shameful burial—“like a donkey.” • 2 Chronicles 36:5–8 records his rebellion against both God and Babylon, piling up consequences. Lessons for Today’s Leaders • Position cannot secure honor—character does. When integrity is absent, even a crown cannot force public respect (Proverbs 14:34). • A leader’s treatment of the powerless matters to God; oppression guarantees divine intervention (Jeremiah 22:3; Psalm 72:4). • Public memory is shaped by righteousness or wickedness: “The memory of the righteous is a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot” (Proverbs 10:7). • You reap exactly what you sow—no office exempts anyone from Galatians 6:7. • God is the ultimate authority over every ruler (Romans 13:1); defiance of His standards invites His verdict. Supporting Scriptural Witness • Ezekiel 34:2–10—shepherds who feed themselves are judged. • Matthew 20:26–27—greatness is measured by servanthood, not status. • 1 Peter 5:2–3—lead willingly, not lording it over those entrusted. Practical Takeaways for Modern Leadership • Regularly audit motives: Am I pursuing “dishonest gain” or God’s glory? • Make justice and mercy non-negotiable in every policy and decision. • Humanize those you lead; people sense whether you see “subjects” or siblings. • Guard humility—titles fade, but God remembers attitudes (James 4:6). • Build a legacy worth mourning: pursue faithfulness now so future generations rejoice, not recoil, at your name. |
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