June 29, 2023
It’s been said that ‘everything rises and falls on leadership.’ This is apparent when you read through the books of Kings and Chronicles. The kings that looked to God were a blessing to their nation, whereas those that rebelled troubled the people.
No king burdened the people more than Jeroboam. This ambitious man represented the rebellious division of Israel. It was said that he had done more evil than those that went before him (1 Kings 14:8-9). That’s quite a statement, but sadly it’s true.
Consider…
Saul – he did as he pleased and even dabbled in witchcraft, but he did not establish a new religion or worship false idols as Jeroboam did.
David – he acted selfishly and made some foolish decisions, but he never changed the worship of the LORD to lead the people away from God. When David sinned, he was called into account and humbly repented. When Jeroboam sinned, he was called into account and persisted in wickedness.
Solomon – he courted idolatry but did not lead the nation into that terrible sin. His idolatrous places were private, established for his wives. Solomon made some poor decisions but he never changed the religion of the people. Whereas Jeroboam established a false religion, erected idols, and constructed false temples. He led the people away from the LORD and into false worship.
What made Jeroboam different, and problematic, was that he purposely led the people away from God. His rebellion destroyed lives and ruined a nation.
Today there are those like Jeroboam, leaders who are not content with opposing God, but want others to turn away from the LORD as well. The entire nation if possible. Their hatred for God, and His ways, is so strong they will stop at nothing to get what they want. History will be rewritten to fit their narrative and laws established to push their agenda. Any opposition to this rebellion will not be permitted. The voices of reason will be silenced and freedom will be lost. The goal is for people to follow them, and their rebellious ways, instead of seeking after the LORD.
It’s what Jeroboam did and what many are attempting to do again.
Let’s pray for the leaders of our nation. Pray for their souls and for the direction they take our country.
Thanks for reading…
Pastor Ramirez