INUNDER Authority

INUNDER Authority

(Prov 16:10 NIrV) A king might speak as if his words come from God. But what he says should not turn right into wrong.

In this verse Solomon shares something that exposes his acknowledgement of Jehovah’s Lordship over his life. Solomon was a sitting king without any checks or balances. Unlike modern democratic forms of government, where there are different branches with decentralized authority, Solomon’s word was the final word. If he sentenced someone to death, they would be killed. If he pardoned a murderer on the verge of execution, their life would be spared. If he decided to give someone a plot of land that was owned by the kingdom, no one could question his decision.

As a king, in his time, he was supreme ruler.

However, this ruler acknowledged the fact that he was IN authority, but also UNDER authority. Under authority of whom you may ask? Of the God who placed him on the throne. Solomon was anointed to be king and he understood that he was only there because of Jehovah, his LORD!

It is with this in mind that Solomon penned these words. Solomon knew that whatever he said could and would become law in his land, but he sought to never establish a law that was contrary to God’s. Solomon sought to ensure that he aligned his decisions with God’s decisions, his right with God’s right, and his wrong with God’s wrong. This way he knew that Jehovah would continue to bless the work of his hands. The alternative was not attractive. Solomon was only two kings removed from a ruler (Saul) who chose to go astray and who lost God’s blessing on his kingdom. I am sure that Solomon was fully aware of the fact that the same could happen to him.

I believe Solomon shares this with us to teach us that a king – and leaders for that matter – should acknowledge the fact that their position of authority has been given to them by God’s providence (Rom 13:1).

Therefore, they must never use the position in ways that would be misrepresentative of the God that blessed them to have it.
The Message Bible paraphrase of this verse reads: “A good leader motivates, doesn't mislead, doesn't exploit.” In other words, a good leader uses his position to be a blessing, not a curse; for God’s glory, not just for their own benefit.

Paul understood authority (both spiritual and secular) very well. That is why he told Timothy (and us) to pray for those in authority, saying:

“I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity” (1st Tim 2:1,2).

So what does this mean to you? A few things:

1. If you are a leader, then acknowledge the fact that you are IN authority, but also UNDER authority. Never misrepresent the God that blessed you to have the position.

2. Use every position the Father blesses you to have for His glory. Remember, you are blessed TO BE a blessing. Leadership is about development, not dictatorship. Leadership is a servant relationship that should facilitate human development. Seek to develop your subordinates and bring out the best in them.

3. Pray for all leaders. Leaders all over the world, in various positions, can positively or negatively affect the lives of others. Pray for all leaders, so that we can live quiet and peaceful lives marked by godliness and dignity.

Father, I thank you for blessing me to have the influence that I do. I declare, by faith, that I will influence others in ways that are pleasing to You. I will use my position for Your Glory! I am blessed TO BE a blessing and I will never forget it. I lead with care and compassion. I lead with dignity and respect. I lead with integrity and courage. I am the leader that You have destined, designed, and desire for me to be. Use me for Your glory – today and every day! In Jesus’ name. Amen!