Rehoboam’s reign began in stark contrast to his wise father, Solomon. But there seems to have been a point, after the kingdom divided, where he learned his lesson and took the advice of others and began to follow in the footsteps of his father. That, in and of itself, was the contributing cause for the brief successes in Rehoboam’s reign. Verse 17 says that Rehoboam and the people made their Kingdom secure “ for they walked for three years in the way of David and Solomon.”
David and Solomon’s reigns provided a model by which successors could model themselves after. To lead God’s people correctly was to do it the way David and Solomon did it. Paul gives us all very similar advice. He tells us in Philippians 2:5, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” We really should ask ourselves in our life situations, “What would Jesus do?” Also, Paul suggests that his readers model themselves after himself. “Imitate me,” he says, “just as I also imitate Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1). Many of us grew up without solid role models. Paul’s advice for us is to try Jesus.
I’ve often read where Psychologists and Psychiatrists berate the lack of positive role models for young men and women in our society. We all need positive role models. The lives of great men like David & Solomon often remind us that it’s possible to live life well and leave behind a set of footprints for others to follow.
Max Lucado invites us to pray with him, “Thank you, Father, for the role models you have given us. Remind us that our actions and attitudes can make a real difference in the lives of others, either for good or for bad. We pray, Father, that you would empower us by your Holy Spirit to set a positive example for others to follow.”
Chuck
“Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude.” 1 Peter 3:8(NLT)