One of the great moments in Israel’s history occurred when God “appeared to Solomon in a dream by night…and said, ask what I shall give thee” (I Kings 3:5). Solomon, David’s son, had just ascended to the throne and God offers him a blank check. Wow! Solomon responded by first acknowledging his privileged position by virtue of God’s goodness to David. Then he spoke plainly and quite humbly about how inadequate he was for the task of ruling. Consequently, he responded to God “give thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people…” (I Kings 3:9).
He could have asked for riches or for the life of his enemies, but did not. Instead, he asked for wisdom to be a good king. The Scriptures tell us that God was pleased with Solomon’s request and answered him “behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee” (I Kings 3:10-12).
Solomon’s first exercise of this gift of wisdom began with worshipping the Lord, the source of all wisdom. “And he came to Jerusalem, and stood before the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and offered up burnt offerings, and offered peace offerings” (I Kings 3:15). Then we are told in that same verse that he “made a feast to all his servants”.
What a lesson for those in authority! Solomon shows us that godly wisdom for those in leadership positions begins with taking care of those that work for them, those who are their servants. True leaders serve others and their service begins with them that work for them. No doubt, Solomon learned this truth from David for God had impressed upon his heart the accountability of those in authority to God. He wrote “The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, he that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God” (2 Samuel 23:3).
Paul understood that those who lead faithfully before God must recognize and value the contribution of those who serve. He wrote to the believers in Colossae, “Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven” (Colossians 4:1). Part of that recognition of those who serve is simply showing appreciation for the contribution they make. Surely, this was behind Solomon’s action in giving his servants a feast.
Those who lead best serve most. Christ taught his disciples that they ought not pattern their leadership after the world’s example of those that love to lead as opposed to those who lead in love. Positions of authority and influence require a concern for the welfare of those under them. Listen to Christ’s exhortation. “Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: and whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all” (Mark 10:42-44).
Leadership is a stewardship from God and love must flow from authority to those under its command. God, the Supreme Authority, set the example. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).
From the Chaplain 