First Kings
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Many Hands, Light Work
(I Kings 4:1-24)
It’s impossible to do everything yourself. Whether a family, business, church, or school, as an organization grows, the burden of the work must be entrusted to capable workers who will conscientiously accomplish their responsibilities. Without able assistants, no organization can experience prolonged growth and prosperity. Men who refuse to entrust responsibility to others limit their own success. Moses’ father-in-law, for example, wisely counseled him to appoint magistrates who could help carry the load. Even our Lord chose twelve apostles to propagate His work. The New Testament church appointed Deacons to help in bearing the burden. Nothing works better than everyone working together!
Solomon had the wisdom to understand that the nation was rapidly entering a new phase. Saul’s leadership of the fledgling monarchy was primarily defensive. He was always fighting off an external threat. David’s early reign continued that effort, but—having established a system of fortifications from “Dan to Beersheba”—the later part of his reign knew relative peace and prosperity. Solomon was to be the heir of an expanding economy and growing geographic kingdom. In fact, under Solomon Israel was a more powerful nation than Egypt! Given the dramatic growth of the nation, Solomon understood the absolute necessity of organization and delegation (20, 21).
For example, Solomon divided the nation into twelve regions, requiring an official in each region to provide sustenance for the royal house one month out of the year (7). His delegation did not reduce his authority; rather, it multiplied his effectiveness as king (24).
Knowing he couldn’t go it alone, Solomon divided the responsibilities of nationhood, granting real authority to capable officers. As their work prospered, so did the nation. Don’t be a lone wolf! Surround yourself with able men and women who can get the job done. Give them real authority and watch as your work prospers!
