What can we learn about leadership from the Assyrian commander's words in Isaiah 36:12? Setting the Scene “Then Rabshakeh said, ‘Has my master sent me to speak these words to your master and to you alone? Has he not also sent me to the men who sit on the wall—destined with you to eat their own dung and drink their own urine?’ ” (Isaiah 36:12) Observing the Commander's Leadership Style • Intimidation as a primary tool • Public degradation of the enemy’s people to erode morale • Arrogant self-confidence, boasting in human strength alone • Manipulative rhetoric—speaking in Hebrew so the common soldiers would hear (Isaiah 36:13) • Total disregard for human dignity Lessons on What Leadership Should NOT Look Like • Intimidation destroys trust. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). • Public shaming demeans those we lead and those we oppose (Proverbs 11:12). • Arrogance leads to downfall (Proverbs 16:18). • Manipulating truth for advantage mirrors Satan’s tactics (John 8:44). • Treating people as expendable violates their God-given worth (Genesis 1:27; James 3:9). Positive Leadership Contrasts • Humility before God and people (Philippians 2:3-4) • Truthful, grace-filled speech that builds up (Ephesians 4:29) • Protection of the vulnerable rather than exploitation (Psalm 82:3-4) • Reliance on the Lord’s strength, not mere human power (2 Chron 32:7-8) • Integrity that matches words with righteous action (Proverbs 20:7) Courage and Discernment for Today’s Leaders • Recognize intimidation when you see it; refuse to adopt it. • Answer arrogance with quiet confidence in God’s promises (Isaiah 37:6-7). • Guard the morale of those you lead through encouragement, not fear (1 Thessalonians 5:11). • Keep communication transparent and honorable; never bypass proper channels to manipulate. Key Takeaways • Fear-based leadership is ultimately self-defeating. • Godly leadership upholds dignity, speaks truth, and trusts the Lord. • The Assyrian commander’s words stand as a cautionary mirror, showing what happens when leaders rely on intimidation instead of righteousness. |
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