But Rehoboam spoke harshly to the people, for he rejected the advice of the older counselors and followed the counsel of his younger advisers.
Rehoboam surrounded himself with Yes Men. They knew what he wanted to hear and told him what he wanted to hear. This had disastrous consequences for the nation of Israel. The nation was ripped in two, just like God promised to Solomon. Global leaders could take a cue from Rehoboam’s experience.
Then again, so could I…
How many times do I go to people who I know will just tell me what I want to hear? How many times do I seek out the “Yes Men (and Women)” in my life? If I know someone is going to call me on the carpet on something or tell me I’m wrong, I’m going to avoid talking to that person. Something tells me you’re probably the same way. Or maybe it’s just me.
How does that stretch me? How does that challenge me to become more Christ-like? How does that call attention to the areas in my life that need to change?
Well, it doesn’t. In fact, it encourages me to do the opposite. This sounds to me like the opposite of iron sharpening iron. This encourages me to stay where I am and allow these Yes Men in my life to continually stroke my ego and convince me that I’m OK.
And that’s not OK. Because I’m not OK.
Wrongdoers eagerly listen to gossip; liars pay close attention to slander. Those who mock the poor insult their Maker; those who rejoice at the misfortune of others will be punished.
Proverbs 17:4 & 5
The Tale of Anakin Redeemed 