After Solomon had died, his son Rehoboam was about to succeed him as king. His first major decision came in response to Jeroboam’s political move to address harsh labor practices. Would he choose to become a servant leader for his people or make a power move? He chose to follow the advice of his privileged young friends rather than the advice of the mature elders and treated his people as his slaves. He also decided to make a defiant stand against his adversary, Jeroboam, to the dismay of the people of Israel. Perhaps to Jeroboam’s delight, he now could gain the support of the people. This was all to fulfill prophecy and was leading to the eventual splitting of the nation.

Rehoboam was not wise. He rejected the wise counsel of the elders and let his own pride get in the way of doing what was right. The best leaders are servants of all. Jesus demonstrated such servant leadership, even washing his disciples’ feet and giving his life to save the lost. The best leaders lead by love.
Application: Lord, thank you for sending your son, Jesus, who laid down his life for me. Help me to serve and love others as well.
One Word: Lead by love