“The beatings will continue until the morale improves.” This does not sound helpful, does it? Have you ever heard that philosophy of leadership? When people complain, double down on your expectations. Pharaoh used that strategy when the people of Israel could not make enough bricks. He said, “Don’t provide them any straw. Make it harder for them.“ We are surprised to see David’s grandson Rehoboam establish the same plan of leadership when he became king.
Solomon’s remarkable building campaign in Israel had given God’s people a beautiful temple. But someone had to pay the price for the magnificent structures Solomon built. He taxed the people heavily and conscripted labor to get it all done. When his son Rehoboam ascended the throne, the people asked him to lighten the load his father had imposed on them. Wise older counselors agreed with the people. Rehoboam’s young friends told him to double down. He did. He lost half the kingdom.
Good leaders listen. As somebody said, “Just because you can, does not mean you should.” Rehoboam had the power to raise taxes on Israel. He exercised that power. Then Rehoboam lost power over the ten tribes of Israel in the North. Did he learn from his mistake? He almost started a civil war. But a man of God told him to go home. So he did. He learned.
Whenever we face a challenge, some will tell us to double down on our mistakes. The voice of God often comes through one faithful person who listens closely to God and speaks his will clearly. Listen for that voice today. Is there anyone who speaks God’s word to you? Listen until you are sure it is God speaking. Then do what he says. Then the “blessings will continue until the morale improves.”
