Proverbs 31:2
What, O my son?
And what, O son of my womb?
And what, O son of my vows?
This particular verse is a way to get attention and secure interest about the subject of what a good leader does with his authority and influence.
Lemuel's mother knew that she had to put deep within her son what was important regarding leadership. She needed to have him understand the basics of servant leadership. Her son would be the key leader over lots of people. She must make sure that he did not use his coming position to lord it over his subjects, but instead to look after their rights, to make decisions righteously, and to defend the afflicted and needy.
She repeats three different times, "What, O my son?" What are you supposed to do when you get to be the leader? What are your priorities? What should you stay away from?
Notice what she then emphasizes to her son the future leader:
Realize that women will be attracted to a man with power and influence; don't give in to that.
You will be tempted to drown your pain and sorrow in alcohol; don't do that either.
Speak for those who can't speak. Other people will want to step on the little guy; as a leader, you need to make sure that doesn't happen.
Make the right decisions even if it is unpopular. Look out for the little guy.
This nine-verse pep talk on servant leadership echoes what Jesus says in the gospels about not lording it over those you lead, but instead using your position to serve them.
Are you using your influence and leadership for righteousness and positive impact into the lives of those you lead?
Until tomorrow,
Gil Stieglitz