How does 2 Samuel 14:19 connect with Proverbs 12:5 on counsel? Setting the Scene • In 2 Samuel 14 Joab arranges for a “wise woman” from Tekoa to present a carefully crafted story to King David. • The aim: nudge David to let Absalom return from exile. • David sees through the staged plea: “Then the king asked, ‘Did Joab put you up to all this?’ The woman answered, ‘…your servant Joab gave me orders. He is the one who instructed your maidservant what to say.’” (2 Samuel 14:19) Proverbs 12:5—A Snapshot of Counsel “The thoughts of the righteous are just, but the counsels of the wicked are deceitful.” (Proverbs 12:5) • Two stark categories: – Righteous counsel—straight, just, transparent. – Wicked counsel—crooked, manipulative, deceit-laden. Linking the Two Passages • Joab’s plan blends good intention (restoring the king’s son) with deceptive packaging (a fictitious story, a planted emissary). • David discerns something off—exactly what Proverbs 12:5 warns about. • The woman’s words, though eloquent, emerge from Joab’s hidden agenda, illustrating “the counsels of the wicked are deceitful.” • The king’s probing question shows that righteous discernment can expose concealed motives. Take-Home Principles on Counsel • Motive matters: even a seemingly noble outcome is tainted when pursued by manipulation. • Method matters: righteous counsel will not rely on half-truths or staged drama. • Discernment is essential: – Ask, “Who benefits most from this advice?” – Compare counsel with clear scriptural commands (Psalm 1:1; Proverbs 3:5-6). – Seek multiple godly voices (Proverbs 15:22). Seeing Righteous Counsel in Action • Nathan’s confrontation of David (2 Samuel 12:1-13) offers a contrast—direct, Spirit-led, aimed at repentance with no hidden sponsor. • Barnabas guiding Saul (Acts 9:26-28) shows transparent, selfless advocacy. • Jesus’ promise of the Spirit as Counselor (John 14:26) guarantees pure guidance. Living This Out • Submit every piece of advice—no matter how persuasive—to Scripture’s light. • Value honesty over expediency; the path of righteous counsel may take longer but bears lasting fruit (James 3:17-18). • When offering counsel, keep motives clear and methods truthful so that, unlike Joab’s scheme, your words mirror the just thoughts of the righteous. |
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