How should we respond to leaders who prioritize self-interest over serving others? Setting the Scene “Also, whenever anyone approached to bow down to him, Absalom would reach out his hand, take hold of him, and kiss him.” (2 Samuel 15:5) Absalom’s gesture of false familiarity masked an appetite for power. His charm drew people away from David, the king God had anointed. This moment invites us to consider how we respond when leaders value self-promotion over genuine service. Spotting Self-Serving Leadership • Grand promises without accountability (2 Samuel 15:2–4) • Flattery that centers on “I will” rather than “God will” • Manipulating symbols of humility—Absalom’s kisses—to secure allegiance • Neglect of God-given authority structures (Romans 13:1) Why It Matters • Self-interest fractures unity: “Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel” (2 Samuel 15:6). • It endangers the vulnerable (Ezekiel 34:2–4). • It opposes Christ’s model: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:28). How Scripture Calls Us to Respond Discern, Don’t Be Swayed • “Do not be carried away by varied and strange teachings” (Hebrews 13:9). • Weigh words against the character and commandments of God (Acts 17:11). Stay Loyal to God’s Appointed Order • David refused to seize power or undermine Saul; he trusted the Lord’s timing (1 Samuel 24:6). • Honor legitimate authority while refusing to join illegitimate coups (Proverbs 24:21–22). Pray and Intercede • “First of all, then, I urge that petitions…be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority” (1 Timothy 2:1–2). • Prayer keeps our hearts from cynicism and invites God’s intervention. Speak Truth with Courage and Respect • Nathan confronted David respectfully yet directly (2 Samuel 12:1–7). • “Speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body” (Ephesians 4:15). Keep Doing Good • “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). • Serve others regardless of a leader’s example (Colossians 3:23–24). Obey God Above All • “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29) when directives contradict Scripture. • Civil disobedience, if required, remains peaceful and ready to accept consequences (Daniel 3:16–18). Guarding Our Own Hearts Self-centered leadership starts small. Philippians 2:3–5 urges, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition…Have the same mindset as Christ.” Regular repentance, accountability, and service keep personal ambition in check. Looking to the Perfect Leader Earthly leaders falter, but Jesus never manipulates. He “lays down His life for the sheep” (John 10:11). By fixing our eyes on Him, we gain the strength to respond to flawed leaders with wisdom, courage, and steadfast faithfulness. |
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