What lessons on honoring leaders can we learn from 1 Chronicles 10:12? The Verse “all the brave men arose and carried away the bodies of Saul and his sons. They brought them to Jabesh, buried their bones under the oak at Jabesh, and fasted seven days.” (1 Chronicles 10:12) Historical Snapshot • Saul’s defeat at Mount Gilboa left his body exposed on Philistine territory (1 Samuel 31:8-10). • Men of Jabesh-gilead remembered Saul’s earlier rescue of their city (1 Samuel 11:1-11). • Risking their lives, they retrieved the bodies, buried them honorably, and fasted—an act of covenant loyalty. Key Observations • Courage: They traveled by night through enemy lines (1 Samuel 31:12). • Gratitude: They repaid past kindness even though Saul had fallen short as king. • Public honor: Burial under the city’s oak became a communal memorial. • Spiritual sobriety: Seven-day fast signaled repentance and reverence before God. Practical Lessons on Honoring Leaders • Remember past service, not only recent failures. • Show respect even when leadership ends poorly (cf. David’s lament, 2 Samuel 1:17-27). • Honor can involve tangible sacrifice—time, resources, even safety. • Corporate expressions (funerals, memorials, days of fasting) teach the next generation respect for authority. • Grateful actions outlive words; they write history’s footnotes of faithfulness. Supporting Scriptures • Romans 13:1—“There is no authority except from God…” • 1 Timothy 5:17—Elders who lead well are worthy of double honor. • Hebrews 13:17—Obey and submit to your leaders “so that their work will be a joy.” • 1 Peter 2:17—“Honor all people… fear God, honor the king.” • Exodus 20:12—The principle of honoring authority begins in the home. Putting It Into Practice • Speak well of leaders privately and publicly when possible. • Repay spiritual investments—write a note, offer help, give generously. • Participate in corporate acts of honor (retirement celebrations, funerals, commemorations). • Teach children the stories of leaders’ faith-filled moments, not just their mistakes. • Practice fasting or special prayer days when the church or nation loses a leader, aligning hearts with God’s purposes. |