What can we learn about leadership from Zebul's actions in Judges 9:35? Setting the Scene • Shechem has revolted against Abimelek. • Zebul, the city’s governor under Abimelek, hears Gaal’s boast (Judges 9:28–29) and secretly warns Abimelek (vv. 30–33). • Abimelek hides in the fields overnight. • By verse 35, “Gaal son of Ebed went out and stood at the entrance of the city gate. And Abimelek and his troops came out from their hiding place”. Zebul’s strategic plan is unfolding in real time. Zebul’s Key Leadership Moves 1. Vigilant listening – He notices dissent early (v. 30). 2. Swift, discreet communication – He sends covert messengers to Abimelek (v. 31). 3. Strategic planning – He outlines a night attack and timing (vv. 32–33). 4. Calm presence – He stands beside Gaal, masking any alarm until Abimelek is in position (vv. 35–36). 5. Motivational challenge – He goads Gaal into action, forcing him to expose himself (v. 38). 6. Follow-through – After the battle, Zebul expels the rebels and restores order in the city (v. 41). Positive Lessons for Today’s Leaders • Stay alert to threats and opportunities. “Be sober-minded; be watchful” (1 Peter 5:8). • Communicate accurately and promptly, even when confidentiality is required (Proverbs 25:9). • Think ahead; craft clear, workable plans (Proverbs 21:5). • Maintain composure under pressure—panic breeds poor decisions (Proverbs 17:27). • Encourage others to accept responsibility for their own words and actions (Galatians 6:7). • Finish the job; leadership includes cleaning up after a crisis (2 Timothy 4:5). Warnings Wrapped into Zebul’s Example • Align your loyalty with righteousness, not merely with power. Abimelek was a murderous tyrant (Judges 9:5). Proverbs 24:21 cautions against siding with “rebellious officials,” yet we must also avoid backing wicked authority (Acts 5:29). • Strategy must never replace integrity. Zebul used deception; Scripture holds honesty as the higher virtue (Psalm 15:2). • Effective tactics cannot redeem unjust causes. Success is empty if the mission itself offends God’s standards (Isaiah 5:20). Putting It All Together Zebul models alertness, planning, composure, and decisive follow-through—qualities every leader should cultivate. Yet his story also reminds us that leadership divorced from moral discernment drifts toward compromise. The best leadership blends Zebul-like strategic skill with unwavering commitment to truth and righteousness (Micah 6:8). |
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