How does 2 Samuel 17:14 connect with Romans 8:28 about God's purpose? Setting the Scene 2 Samuel records the tense moment when David’s son Absalom rebels. Two advisers step forward: • Ahithophel, whose counsel was usually “like one who inquires of God” (2 Samuel 16:23). • Hushai, David’s friend, secretly working to save the king. Absalom must choose which voice to follow—and his decision will shape the outcome of the revolt. The Key Verse: 2 Samuel 17:14 “Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said, ‘The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than that of Ahithophel.’ For the LORD had ordained to thwart the good counsel of Ahithophel in order to bring disaster on Absalom.” Notice two truths: 1. Human choice: Absalom and Israel openly prefer Hushai’s plan. 2. Divine direction: “The LORD had ordained” this outcome to accomplish His larger purpose—judgment on Absalom and protection for His anointed, David. Romans 8:28: God’s Overarching Promise “And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.” Paul assures believers that everything—pleasant or painful—falls under one sovereign intention: our ultimate good and God’s eternal purpose. Connecting the Dots: Same God, Same Purpose • In 2 Samuel 17:14, God weaves the political intrigue, the pride of Absalom, and the loyalty of Hushai into a tapestry that secures David’s throne. • In Romans 8:28, God pledges to weave every thread of a believer’s life—successes, setbacks, even sins repented of—into a design that advances His redemptive plan. The historical scene in David’s day becomes a living illustration of the timeless promise in Romans. The God who “ordained” events in 1000 BC still “works all things” today. What This Reveals about God’s Sovereignty • His purpose stands above human wisdom (Proverbs 19:21; Isaiah 14:24). • He can turn “good counsel” (Ahithophel’s militarily sound advice) into futility when it opposes His will. • He simultaneously protects His covenant promise to David (2 Samuel 7:12-16) and preserves the messianic line that leads to Christ. What This Means for Us Today • No circumstance is random; every twist is under God’s hand (Ephesians 1:11). • When opposition rises, remember that God may be orchestrating it to refine, redirect, or rescue (Genesis 50:20; James 1:2-4). • Just as David’s eventual restoration foreshadowed greater deliverance, our trials carry resurrection hope (2 Colossians 4:17-18). Supporting Scriptures • Psalm 33:10-11 — He frustrates the plans of nations, but His own purpose endures. • Proverbs 21:30 — “No wisdom, no understanding, no counsel can prevail against the LORD.” • Isaiah 46:10 — He declares the end from the beginning and accomplishes all His good pleasure. Takeaway 2 Samuel 17:14 is Romans 8:28 in real time: God actively steering human choices to fulfill His promise, protect His people, and accomplish His good purpose—then, now, and always. |
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