Anatomy of a Grave Decision
1 Kings 12:3-24
Decisions – decisions – decisions! We face them every day. Some are small, others far-reaching. All people make their share of bad decisions, even though most probably do not set out intentionally to make bad choices. Christians aspire, above all, to make decisions to honor God. As we study Rehoboam’s choices, we see him make good and bad decisions. Through this study, we will learn consistently to utilize good decision-making principles.
Rehoboam was Solomon’s son who followed him as king. One crisis he faced dealt with the social policies of his father. Citizens of the northern tribes confronted him about the harshness of Solomon’s taxes, labor, and military service. Rehoboam wisely took three days to consider the matter. When pressed by others or by circumstances to make key decisions about future relationships or practices, we are wise to take time, if possible, to consider carefully the decisions. The first principle of decision-making is “when possible, take time” (1 Kings 12:3-5).
Rehoboam sought advice from two groups concerning the decision he had to make – from elders who had served his father’s court and from young men who had grown up with him and now served in his court. We can gain help in making good decisions by seeking advice from those who will tell us what we need to hear and not just what they think we want to hear. The second principle of decision-making is “by all means, seek good advice” (1 Kings 12:6-8).
Although Rehoboam took time and sought good advice, he refused to weigh the effects of his decision. In fact, he enacted social policies more oppressive than his father’s that resulted in the northern tribes rebelling, thus severing the nation into two kingdoms. By carefully weighing beforehand the short-term and long-term effects our decisions may have, we can avoid making choices that intentionally harm people or hinder the Lord’s purposes. The third principle of decision-making is “with great care, consider a decision’s effects” (1 Kings 12:16-18).
Even though Rehoboam did not consult the Lord in his earlier disastrous decision, he found himself being confronted by the Word of God delivered from a man of God. In response, he obeyed God by not sending forces against the rebellious northern tribes. By always being willing to hear God’s Word and to obey it, we can make wise decisions and avoid causing bad choices we have made to become even worse. The fourth principle of decision-making is “above all, listen to God’s Word” (1 Kings 12:22-24).
Remember, decisions do matter! In fact, some have life-changing significance. We can learn from Rehoboam good decision-making principles, which can be utilized in the decisions that we face.
Larry McDonald– Lessons by Larry McDonald, dean of North Greenville University’s Graduate School of Christian Ministry and professor of Christian spirituality. He holds a Ph.D. from Southeastern Seminary and a D.Min. from Reformed Theological Seminary.