How does 2 Kings 13:15 encourage us to seek godly counsel in challenges? Setting the Scene “Then Elisha said to him, ‘Take a bow and arrows.’ So he took a bow and arrows.” (2 Kings 13:15) Joash, king of Israel, stands before the aged prophet Elisha. Aram threatens Israel, and the king knows he is outmatched. In one simple sentence, Scripture captures a life-changing moment: Joash listens when the man of God speaks. The Invitation to Receive Counsel • Elisha’s first word is not strategy but relationship—“Take.” • Joash’s first response is obedience—“So he took.” • Before any victory comes instruction; before instruction comes a willing heart. Why God Values Counsel • Proverbs 11:14—“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” • Proverbs 15:22—“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Hebrews 13:7—“Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” God repeatedly ties protection, success, and spiritual growth to the humble reception of godly advice. Lessons for Our Challenges Today 1. God often speaks through seasoned believers. Elisha’s voice carried authority because it carried God’s word. 2. Timely counsel opens doors to future victories. Without Elisha’s directions, Joash would not have shot the “arrow of the LORD’s victory” (v. 17). 3. Obedience in small steps precedes larger breakthroughs. Taking the bow looked ordinary, yet it positioned Joash for a miraculous promise. 4. Ignoring counsel limits blessing. Joash later strikes the ground only three times (v. 18-19), and his partial obedience limits Israel’s triumphs. Practical Steps to Seek Godly Counsel • Identify proven believers—those whose lives consistently honor Christ and Scripture. • Approach early, not as a last resort; Joash sought Elisha while the prophet could still speak. • Bring humility, ready to “take” whatever instruction Scripture upholds. (James 1:19) • Weigh every word against the Bible’s clear teaching; God’s counsel never contradicts His written truth. • Follow through completely. Partial obedience forfeits part of the blessing. Encouragement in God’s Faithfulness The same Lord who guided Joash guides us today. He places wise voices in the Body of Christ so we may walk in victory. “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all” (James 1:5). Seek, listen, and obey—God stands ready to direct every step. |
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