1 Kings 12-13

Daily Devotional from 1 Kings 12--

Verse 7
And (the old men) said to him, “If you will be a servant to this people today and serve them, and speak good words to them when you answer them, then they will be your servants forever.”
 
Dear Rehoboam,
 
Congratulations on obtaining the Kingdom. May you reign in the grace of David and in the wisdom of your father, Solomon.
 
You have consulted us regarding your new duties. And we are glad, for there are some who would have you believe your new role entitles you to instant respect. Not so, young man. There are others who will encourage you to rule with an iron fist. This is sheer folly. Although we are advanced in age, we offer you timeless truth.
 
Great servants make great leaders. Show the people that the king will live for them and not for himself, and an army of men will encamp around you and the daughters of Israel will sing your praise. But, oh Rehoboam, we fear. For if you choose to be served, rather than serve, you will rend a nation in two. You may try to lead, but if you fail to love, all your efforts will be for naught. We recommend that you focus on serving this people, rather than being served.
 
May you choose wisely,
The old men of Solomon’s Court.
 
Demetrius Rogers