1 Chronicles 19 : The Importance of Leadership

1 Chronicles 19 <The Importance of Leadership>

2. David said, "I will show kindness to Hanun son of Nahash, because his father showed kindness to me." So David sent a delegation to express his sympathy to Hanun concerning his father. When David's envoys came to the land of the Ammonites to Hanun to express sympathy to him,

3. the Ammonite commanders said to Hanun, "Do you think David is honoring your father by sending envoys to you to express sympathy? Haven't his envoys come to you only to explore and spy out the country and overthrow it?"

4. So Hanun seized David's envoys, shaved them, cut off their garments at the buttocks, and sent them away.

◇ This passage compels us to reflect once again on the importance of leadership. It reminds us that when leaders make unwise decisions, their people suffer greatly.

When Nahash, king of the Ammonites, died, his son Hanun became king. Remembering his friendly relationship with Nahash, David sent a delegation with good intentions to offer condolences. However, Hanun's officials viewed David with suspicion and saw the delegation as spies. They claimed that David intended to scout out Ammon and wage war to destroy it. Listening to his officials, Hanun had David's envoys shaved, cut their garments off at the buttocks, and sent them away.

War broke out between Ammon and Israel. Though the Ammonites employed mercenaries and used every means at their disposal, they were ultimately defeated and lost everything.

It is important for a king to listen to his officials' counsel. Seeking diverse opinions rather than acting unilaterally is an essential quality for a ruler. However, a leader must carefully assess the situation, listen to various perspectives, and make the wisest decisions for the nation and its people. That is the responsibility of leadership.

Was Hanun truly unaware of the relationship between his father Nahash and David? Rather than simply listening to his officials' words, did he do his utmost to understand the situation with David and Israel and discern their true intentions?

A leader's decisions can either cause a nation to flourish or lead to its downfall. The church is no different.

♧ Good and righteous God, grant us wisdom. Help us to obey Your word and guide us to make wise decisions for Your people and the church. Holy Spirit, make us strong and courageous. Amen.