FAITH CAPSULE: Elevation to a leadership position is not an authorization to eliminate the people.

1 Kings 12

It is important to know that every position of leadership is not to stress out the people but to lead by serving the people first. Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith made it clear by example and in His word when He stated, “And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave— just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:27-28) Inside or outside of the church, your elevation to a leadership position is not an authorization to stress the people but to serve the people.
Rehoboam was elevated when he became king after his father king Solomon. He was approached by the whole assembly of Israel saying, “Your father made our yoke heavy; now therefore, lighten the burdensome service of your father, and his heavy yoke which he put on us, and we will serve you.” (1 Kings 12:4) Rehoboam responded wisely when he asked the assembly of Israel to come back in three days. It is always a wise move to delay responding to a request when we are short of answer. Rehoboam did well by going on to inquire than responding with a negative response that could affect his position of leading the people. Rehoboam consulted the elders, “And they spoke to him, saying, ‘If you will be a servant to these people today, and serve them, and answer them, and speak good words to them, then they will be your servants forever.’”(1 Kings 12:7) Have you been promoted to a higher position where you are expecting to serve and be served for a better result? It is better to learn from the word of God on how to be a server first before being served as one who is leading.
Rehoboam did not receive the advice of the elders well when he turned to consult the young men that grew with him. He was advised to, “…speak to this people who have spoken to you, saying, ‘Your father made our yoke heavy, but you make it lighter on us’—thus you shall say to them: ‘My little finger shall be thicker than my father’s waist! 11 And now, whereas my father put a heavy yoke on you, I will add to your yoke; my father chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scourges!’” (1Kings 12:10-11) Rehoboam rejected the advice of the elders for the young one’s advice. Rehoboam’s response was a fall in the beginning of his reign through to the end of his reign. If you will lead by Jesus’ example and not take the route of Rehoboam, it shall be well with you.

Prayer for today: Ask for the grace of understanding to serve for God to be glorified in your life.