How does 2 Samuel 17:10 illustrate the importance of godly counsel in leadership? The unfolding moment in 2 Samuel 17:10 “Then even the bravest among them, whose heart is like the heart of a lion, will utterly melt with fear, for all Israel knows that your father is a mighty warrior and that those who are with him are valiant.” Backdrop of the verse • Absalom is plotting against his father David. • Two voices speak into his strategy: Ahithophel (respected but ungodly) and Hushai (loyal to David, planted by God). • Hushai’s words in verse 10 paint a vivid picture of dread if Absalom attacks too soon. • Absalom accepts Hushai’s counsel, and David gains time to escape—preserving the king, the kingdom, and the Messianic line. Why this highlights the value of godly counsel 1. Counsel shapes destiny – One sentence redirected a nation’s future (2 Samuel 17:14). – Proverbs 15:22 “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” 2. Counsel affects courage – Hushai predicts hearts “melt with fear,” proving words can steady or shatter resolve. – Joshua 2:11 shows a similar effect when Rahab says, “Our hearts melted.” Good counsel builds courage; false counsel drains it. 3. Counsel reveals spiritual alignment – Ahithophel spoke with skill but without submission to God. – Hushai’s wisdom aligned with God’s purpose to preserve David’s throne (2 Samuel 17:14, “the LORD had ordained to thwart the good counsel of Ahithophel”). – Psalm 1:1 warns against walking “in the counsel of the wicked.” Marks of counsel worth receiving • Rooted in God’s truth (Psalm 119:105). • Honors God’s appointed authority (Romans 13:1). • Long-range view, not just immediate gain (Proverbs 19:20). • Confirmed by multiple godly voices (Proverbs 11:14). • Produces peace rather than panic (James 3:17). Consequences of ignoring sound counsel • Absalom’s downfall: he later spurns further wise warnings (2 Samuel 18) and loses his life. • Rehoboam repeats the mistake, forsaking elders’ advice, splitting the kingdom (1 Kings 12:6-19). • Proverbs 14:12 rings true—“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” Takeaways for modern leaders • Seek advisers who fear God more than they fear you. • Test every strategy against Scripture. • Watch for counsel that stirs panic; godly wisdom engenders confidence in the Lord. • Remember: one well-timed, Spirit-directed word can safeguard families, churches, even nations. |
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