How does 1 Kings 1:12 demonstrate the importance of seeking wise counsel? Verse in Focus “Now please, come and let me give you counsel so that you may save your own life and the life of your son Solomon.” (1 Kings 1:12) Context Snapshot • Adonijah, another of David’s sons, has exalted himself as king (1 Kings 1:5). • Nathan the prophet discerns the danger this poses to Bathsheba and Solomon—David’s God-appointed heir (2 Samuel 12:24-25). • Before acting, Nathan urges Bathsheba to listen to his guidance. His counsel becomes the turning point for preserving the royal line God promised. Observations on Wise Counsel • Urgency and clarity: Nathan does not mince words—lives are at stake. • Qualified adviser: As God’s prophet, Nathan speaks with spiritual authority and proven integrity (cf. 2 Samuel 7:2-17). • Mutual participation: “Come… let me give you counsel.” Wisdom invites collaboration, not coercion. • Alignment with God’s promise: Nathan’s advice safeguards Solomon, through whom the Davidic covenant will continue (2 Samuel 7:12-16). • Outcome-oriented: The counsel is practical—designed to secure survival and fulfill God’s plan. Lessons for Today • Seek counsel early. Bathsheba listens before Adonijah’s plot settles; early guidance can avert later crises (Proverbs 27:12). • Choose godly advisers. Voices grounded in Scripture and proven faithfulness mirror Nathan’s role (Proverbs 11:14; 15:22). • Value candid warnings. Love sometimes sounds an alarm; ignoring it courts danger (Ezekiel 3:17-19). • Act on the counsel received. Bathsheba follows Nathan’s plan immediately, demonstrating that wisdom applied is wisdom effective (James 1:22-25). • Remember God’s bigger picture. Wise counsel fits within God’s revealed will, protecting both the individual and His redemptive purposes (Romans 12:2). Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 12:15 — “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to counsel.” • Proverbs 20:18 — “Set plans by consultation; wage war with wise guidance.” • Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 — “Two are better than one… if one falls, the other will lift up his companion.” • Acts 15:1-21 — The Jerusalem Council models collective discernment for the early church. Practical Takeaways • Build a trusted circle of biblically grounded advisers before a crisis strikes. • Invite honest assessment of your plans; treat warning signs as gifts, not threats. • Measure every piece of advice against Scripture, God’s unerring standard. • Respond promptly; delayed obedience can nullify wise counsel. • Thank God for those He sends to steer you toward His safeguard and blessing. |
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