What does the story of Absalom teach us about leadership?

Absalom's rebellion against King David illustrates the dangers of pride and self-promotion in leadership. He believed he could provide better justice than his father, which reveals a fundamental heart issue of mistrust in God’s appointed authority. The narrative serves as a warning against believing we could do a job better than God in any sphere of life, leading to disastrous consequences. The richness of this story emphasizes the need for humility and reliance on God’s sovereign leadership. As seen in this account, true leadership acknowledges God's sovereignty, focusing on service rather than personal ambition.