Servant Leadership – When Leadership Refuses to Listen (365/260)
Have you ever dismissed someone’s advice simply because it challenged what you had already decided?
“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)
In 1 Kings 12, we meet Rehoboam, Solomon’s successor and the only son mentioned by name, despite Solomon having over 1,000 concubines. And he was foolish. Soon after becoming king, Rehoboam faced a people weary of the heavy taxes and forced labour under Solomon. They pledged allegiance if he would lighten their burden. Rehoboam rightly sought counsel from the elders who had advised his father, who urged him to serve the people and respond kindly. However, he rejected their wisdom and followed his young companions’ advice to assert his authority by increasing their burden. Rehoboam’s misunderstanding of leadership as a means to prove his power rather than serve his people with humility and wisdom ultimately divided the kingdom (v1-19).
Jesus, though He was Lord and Master, washed His disciples’ feet (John 13:3-15), expressing His authority through love and service, not self-importance. As His followers, we are called to lead with humility, listening wisely and prioritising others’ well-being over asserting our authority.
Pause and Ponder
Do I welcome counsel that challenges me or seek agreement?
Do I listen to understand or defend my authority?
Do I use my influence to serve or to assert my importance?
When we choose agreeable voices over wise counsel, we risk losing touch with those we are called to serve - and fail to reflect Christ, our Servant King.
Lord Jesus, help me listen with wisdom, respond with grace and use my influence to serve those entrusted to my care. May my leadership reflect Yours. Amen.
Extended Reading: 1 Kings 12:1-24
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