June 11

The original “Macho Man”

When we first become Christ followers, we are concerned with outward behavior. But as we grow over the years, the focus then turns inward. Significant growth only takes place in our lives when we examine why we do what we do.

Jehu was a guy who probably didn’t take much time to look on the inside. This guy had one speed in life – wide open. His nickname as a kid was most likely “cyclone” or “macho.” Experts have labeled his legacy as the “Execution Dynasty.” One of the more interesting characteristics of his life was he “drove his chariot like a madman.” He must have taken lessons from the people of Stamford. I tried to imagine how one would even drive a two wheel chariot like a madman. Did he take turns on one wheel? Did he break the speed limit?

This guy was definitely not the intellectual or philosophical type. When he is anointed by Elisha, he casually mentions it to his friends, which in turns starts a sequence that forces his hand. It appears that he never considered his position as a mission from God, just an opportunity to flex his muscle and use power to intimidate people into following him. And it worked. With just testosterone, he was able to wipe out a large number of the most dangerous people in Israel.

Jehu used some unusual techniques to secure his authority. In 2 Kings 10:15-16 we have the story of Jehonadab when he encountered the new king. Jehu greets him and says, would you be interested in a little chariot ride with me?

I am convinced that Jehonadab was never quite the same. As Chuck Swindoll notes, “Jehonadab probably died on his feet with his eyes open, his knuckles white as rice. And bug stains all over his face. His bones are still shaking. Jehonadab will probably stutter throughout eternity.”

All of this leads me to question why and I doing what I am doing. Am I leading on testosterone or on the power of God? So ask yourself the deeper question of WHY today.

Friday is accountability day. Send me a quick note, I would love to hear from you.