May 4, 2025 – The Bread for the Week – Being a King for The King

Being a King for the King

How Kings Like David, Solomon, and Josiah Would Govern the United States as a Kingdom unto God

In considering how ancient kings like David, Solomon, and Josiah might govern the United States if it were a kingdom dedicated unto God, we must first understand the unique qualities of these kings and how they ruled in accordance with God’s will. The Bible provides rich insights into their leadership styles, their wisdom, their understanding of justice, and their devotion to God. If these kings were to govern a modern nation like the United States, they would bring principles of truth, justice, wisdom, and spiritual integrity to every aspect of governance.

King David: A Man After God’s Own Heart

David, known as “a man after God’s own heart” (Acts 13:22), was not a perfect king, but his leadership was marked by a deep relationship with God and a commitment to justice. David sought to lead with integrity, righteousness, and worship at the center of his reign. If David were to govern the United States, he would approach leadership with a heart attuned to God’s will, seeking divine guidance in every decision.

1. Pursuit of God’s Will in Governance David’s leadership was driven by a desire to honor God and establish His kingdom on earth. For David, the welfare of the nation was intricately linked to the nation’s relationship with God. He prioritized the worship of God, bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem and making the Temple a central focus. Under David’s rule, worship was integral to the national identity.

If David were king of the United States, he would likely emphasize the importance of a nation that seeks to honor God above all else. He would call for regular national prayer, worship, and repentance, encouraging citizens to return to God in every area of life, from politics to personal conduct. His policies would reflect a government that acknowledges the sovereignty of God, promoting justice and righteousness as foundational principles.

2. A Leader Who Cares for the People David’s concern for the well-being of his people was evident throughout his reign. Even though he was a warrior king, he was also deeply compassionate, ensuring that his people were treated justly and fairly. He brought prosperity, but he also sought to protect the vulnerable and ensure justice for the oppressed.

In the United States, David’s leadership would focus on justice for the oppressed, the protection of the poor and marginalized, and a commitment to fairness in all areas of society. His administration would work tirelessly to combat corruption and inequity, making sure that every citizen had the opportunity to thrive.

King Solomon: Wisdom in Governance

Solomon, the son of David, is renowned for his wisdom and understanding. When God offered Solomon anything he desired, Solomon asked for wisdom to govern God’s people. God granted him unparalleled wisdom, wealth, and peace during his reign. Solomon’s rule was marked by prosperity, but also by the pursuit of knowledge, justice, and the establishment of strong alliances.

1. Wisdom as the Foundation of Governance Solomon’s reign was defined by wisdom. His judgment was legendary, as seen in the story of the two women who came to him with a dispute over a baby. Solomon’s wise judgment not only resolved the matter but also displayed his discernment and ability to govern justly.

If Solomon were to govern the United States, wisdom would be the foundation of all policy decisions. His government would seek divine wisdom in tackling societal issues, prioritizing education, and fostering dialogue based on understanding and compassion. Solomon would seek to guide his nation with insight, balancing economic policies with moral considerations, and focusing on long-term prosperity rather than short-term gain.

2. Prosperity with Integrity Solomon brought prosperity to Israel by overseeing trade, expanding infrastructure, and establishing peace through strategic alliances. His wisdom allowed the nation to flourish.

In governing the United States, Solomon would likely prioritize economic prosperity, but with an emphasis on ethical practices and the well-being of all citizens. He would promote innovation, infrastructure development, and diplomacy, ensuring that the nation’s wealth benefited everyone, not just a select few. Solomon would also work to ensure that prosperity was used to honor God and further the good of His kingdom.

3. Building Strong Alliances Solomon’s diplomatic skills were also vital to his reign. He built strong alliances with surrounding nations and established a reputation for peace. Solomon’s government was one of stability and collaboration.

In the context of the United States, Solomon would likely foster international relations based on mutual respect, peace, and the pursuit of justice. He would promote diplomacy over conflict, understanding that a peaceful nation is one that can best fulfill its calling as a beacon of hope and righteousness in the world.

King Josiah: A Reforming King

Josiah was one of the last kings of Judah, and his reign was characterized by reform and a return to righteousness. Upon discovering the Book of the Law during renovations of the temple, Josiah was convicted of the nation’s sinful practices and immediately sought to bring the people back to God.

1. A Heart for Reformation Josiah’s leadership was marked by his commitment to reform. He tore down idols, restored the temple, and reinstituted proper worship. He led the nation in repentance and renewal of their covenant with God.

If Josiah were to lead the United States, he would focus on national reformation. He would challenge the nation to turn back to God, calling for repentance from sin, corruption, and idolatry. His administration would promote righteousness, encouraging personal holiness and national revival. He would lead the charge in rooting out injustice, corruption, and any practices that dishonor God.

2. A Commitment to Righteousness Josiah’s commitment to righteousness led him to purge the land of idolatry and sinful practices. He was a king who wanted to restore the nation’s moral compass.

In the United States, Josiah’s rule would emphasize moral integrity and righteousness in both public and private life. He would challenge individuals, leaders, and institutions to live according to godly standards of honesty, justice, and love. His focus would be on ensuring that laws and policies align with God’s commands, promoting a culture of righteousness and holiness.

Truth and Wisdom in Governance

Each of these kings—David, Solomon, and Josiah—demonstrated unique qualities of leadership that, if applied to the governance of the United States, would be transformative. Their rule was based on truth, wisdom, justice, and a deep reverence for God. These principles are not only relevant for ancient Israel but are timeless and applicable to any nation that seeks to be governed by God’s truth and wisdom.

If the United States were governed as a kingdom unto God, it would embrace these qualities:

• Seeking God’s Will: Just as David and Solomon sought God’s will in their governance, a nation that seeks to honor God in every decision would experience His favor and blessing.
• Wisdom and Justice: Solomon’s emphasis on wisdom and justice would provide a foundation for wise leadership and fair policies, ensuring that the needs of all citizens are met.
• Reformation and Repentance: Like Josiah, a king or leader who prioritizes reformation would call the nation to repentance, uproot injustice, and establish righteousness as the standard.

Ultimately, a kingdom governed by God’s truth and wisdom would be a kingdom marked by peace, justice, and prosperity, a place where God’s love and justice reign. In the United States, this means not just a commitment to national success, but a devotion to living according to God’s commands, with His glory as the ultimate aim.

In conclusion, the kings of Israel—David, Solomon, and Josiah—would govern the United States not by human wisdom alone, but by divine truth and righteousness. They would lead with a heart for God, a commitment to justice, and a passion for national reformation. Their example serves as a powerful model for leadership today, showing us how to build a nation that honors God and lives out His truth.

The Captain of Industry as a King on Earth: Running a Company with Biblical Wisdom, Integrity, and Love

In today’s world, a “captain of industry” is typically someone who leads a successful company, influencing the marketplace and shaping economic trends. While such a person might be admired for their business acumen and financial success, when we view them through the lens of biblical wisdom and kingdom leadership, we see them not merely as a CEO or business mogul, but as a king on earth—a steward of God’s resources and a leader called to honor Him in all they do.

A captain of industry, in this sense, would govern their company much like a king would govern a kingdom: with wisdom, justice, and a heart of service. The Bible offers deep insights into how leaders should conduct themselves in every aspect of life, especially in the workplace. Let’s explore how a captain of industry today could lead their company with biblical integrity, wisdom, and love for their employees, as Christ taught.

1. Stewardship: A King Who Stewards God’s Resources

In the Bible, kings were stewards of the resources God had given them, whether it was land, people, or wealth. A captain of industry, much like a king, is entrusted with resources—capital, employees, products, and services—and is responsible for managing them well.

Biblical Wisdom:

• Matthew 25:14-30 (Parable of the Talents): In this parable, Jesus teaches about the importance of stewardship. The master gives each servant a different amount of talents (money), and the ones who invest and grow what they’ve been given are praised, while the one who hides his talent is rebuked. A modern-day leader would understand that their resources—whether financial, human, or material—are entrusted to them by God to manage wisely and grow for the good of all.

Application for the Captain of Industry: A kingly business leader would recognize that the wealth and success of their company are not simply for their own benefit but are resources entrusted to them by God to build His Kingdom. They would use these resources wisely, not only to maximize profits but to contribute to the well-being of their employees, their community, and society at large. This might include investing in ethical business practices, supporting causes that promote justice, and creating long-term sustainability, rather than pursuing short-term gain at any cost.

2. Wisdom: Ruling with Biblical Insight

Just as King Solomon was renowned for his wisdom, a captain of industry should seek to lead with divine understanding. Solomon’s wisdom allowed him to govern Israel with fairness and prosperity, and it led him to make decisions that benefited both his people and his kingdom.

Biblical Wisdom:

• James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” A godly business leader would regularly seek wisdom from God, asking for guidance in difficult decisions, whether they involve financial investments, human resources, or ethical dilemmas.
• Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” This speaks to the humility required to acknowledge that the wisdom of God supersedes human reasoning.

Application for the Captain of Industry: In practice, this means that a godly business leader would not rely solely on market trends or worldly strategies but would seek God’s wisdom in all decisions. They would prioritize biblical principles—justice, mercy, and truth—when making choices for their company. This wisdom would lead them to foster an ethical work environment, uphold high standards of honesty, and make decisions that reflect integrity rather than bending to the pressures of short-term profit or public opinion.

3. Integrity: The Foundation of Leadership

A king, in the biblical sense, was expected to lead with integrity and righteousness. God often rebuked the kings of Israel when they led unjustly or corrupted the people. A modern-day captain of industry, like a king, is called to lead with integrity, ensuring that their business practices reflect honesty, fairness, and respect for others.

Biblical Wisdom:

• Proverbs 11:1: “The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with Him.” This verse speaks to the importance of fairness and honesty in all transactions.
• Psalm 25:21: “May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, Lord, is in you.” This highlights that integrity, in both leadership and actions, protects and guides the leader.

Application for the Captain of Industry: A business leader who runs their company with integrity is someone who ensures transparency, treats customers fairly, and operates ethically in all dealings. They would not deceive their clients, mislead their employees, or cut corners to gain an unfair advantage. Integrity would be woven into the fabric of the company, ensuring that everything from marketing practices to internal policies upholds the highest moral standards.

4. Loving Employees as Oneself: The Royal Command of Compassion

In a kingdom governed by biblical principles, the king was responsible for the welfare of the people. He was expected to care for them, protect them, and lead them with compassion and understanding. In the same way, a captain of industry is called to love their employees as themselves, serving them with a heart of humility and care.

Biblical Wisdom:

• Mark 12:30-31: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength… Love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus makes it clear that the command to love others as we love ourselves is paramount to the Christian life.
• Ephesians 6:9: “And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him.” This reminds leaders to treat their employees with respect and fairness, knowing that God holds them accountable.

Application for the Captain of Industry: A godly leader would show care for their employees’ well-being, not just as workers, but as individuals with personal lives, hopes, and struggles. This means offering fair wages, promoting work-life balance, and providing opportunities for professional and personal growth. Furthermore, they would create a work environment that fosters trust, collaboration, and respect, where employees feel valued and appreciated. Such a leader would also be compassionate in times of hardship, offering support when employees face personal challenges, and ensuring that their needs are met to the best of the company’s ability.

5. Empowering Others: A King Who Lifts Up His People

A true king empowers those around him, recognizing the potential of his people and working to lift them up. Similarly, a captain of industry should focus on empowering employees, helping them reach their full potential, and creating opportunities for advancement.

Biblical Wisdom:

• Proverbs 16:3: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” A leader who commits their work to the Lord recognizes that God’s purpose is to build up others.
• Matthew 20:26-28: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave… just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” This is the model of leadership: serving others.

Application for the Captain of Industry: In a practical sense, this would mean creating a company culture that values collaboration, mentorship, and growth. A leader would invest in the development of their employees, providing them with tools, education, and opportunities to thrive. They would focus on servant leadership, not seeking power for their own benefit, but using their position to serve and uplift those in their care.

Conclusion: A Captain of Industry as a King on Earth

In today’s world, a captain of industry can be more than just a successful business leader—they can embody the role of a king on earth, leading with wisdom, integrity, and love. By following biblical principles, they would seek to honor God in all decisions, empower and care for their employees, and steward their resources for the good of the company and society. Their leadership would be marked by humility, wisdom, and a deep commitment to justice, showing the world what it looks like when a company is run as a kingdom unto God.

Through the power of the Holy Spirit, such a leader would not only transform the workplace but would also reflect the love, truth, and justice of God in every aspect of their business. In this way, the marketplace becomes a place where God’s Kingdom is visible and His glory is reflected in the way people are treated and the decisions that are made.