What can we learn from Solomon's advisors about godly leadership principles? Setting the Scene Solomon’s reign ended in peace and prosperity. When his son Rehoboam took the throne, the people asked for lighter labor and taxes. Rehoboam first turned to the seasoned elders who had served Solomon. “Then King Rehoboam consulted with the elders who had served his father Solomon during his lifetime. ‘How do you advise me to answer these people?’ he asked.” These elders—Solomon’s advisors—embody time-tested principles for godly leadership. Principle 1 – Seek Seasoned Counsel • They had walked beside Solomon through decades of administration, worship, and diplomacy. • Proverbs 15:22 echoes their value: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Godliness delights in collective wisdom; arrogance isolates. Principle 2 – Listen with Humility • Rehoboam asked, “How do you advise me?”—a posture of inquiry before decision. • Proverbs 12:15: “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to counsel.” • James 1:19 reinforces the rhythm: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” Principle 3 – Lead as a Servant, Not a Taskmaster • Though 2 Chronicles 10:7 records their reply, its heart is already implied in verse 6: lighten the burden, win loyalty. • Matthew 20:26-28 mirrors this: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant… the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” • True authority is exercised for the good of those served, not for self-exaltation. Principle 4 – Gauge Advice by God’s Character • The elders’ proposal aligned with covenant principles of justice and compassion (Deuteronomy 15:11). • Wise leaders weigh counsel against God’s revealed heart, not against ego or public pressure. Principle 5 – Recognize Consequences of Ignoring Godly Counsel • Rehoboam rejected the elders and split the kingdom (2 Chronicles 10:13-19). • Proverbs 11:14: “For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors comes deliverance.” • Refusal to heed godly advice invites division and loss. Living It Out Today • Surround yourself with mature believers who have proven faithful under pressure. • Invite their honest feedback before major decisions. • Test every suggestion against Scripture’s call to humility, justice, and servant-hearted love. • Remember: leadership influence grows, not shrinks, when it listens first and serves sacrificially. From Solomon’s seasoned advisors we learn that godly leadership is humble, consultative, servant-minded, and firmly anchored in the character of God. |
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