How does 2 Samuel 20:16 demonstrate the importance of seeking wise counsel today? Setting the Scene 2 Samuel 20 describes Sheba’s rebellion against King David. Joab pursues Sheba to the fortified city of Abel Beth-maacah. Siege ramps go up, the battering ram pounds—then verse 16 bursts in: “Then a wise woman called out from the city, ‘Listen! Listen! Please tell Joab to come here, that I may speak with him.’” Observing the Text • She is identified first and foremost as “a wise woman.” • She does not panic; she negotiates. • Her initiative halts Joab’s assault long enough for dialogue (vv. 17-22). • Her counsel averts bloodshed and preserves an entire city. Insights on Wise Counsel 1. Wisdom still has a voice • The woman’s voice pierces the clamor of war; today wise counsel must often rise above cultural noise. 2. Wisdom seeks conversation, not confrontation • She requests a personal audience—modeling respectful engagement that opens hearts to reason. 3. Wisdom remembers covenant and history • In v. 18 she cites the city’s heritage as a place “that seeks advice,” appealing to Joab’s sense of justice. 4. Wisdom offers practical solutions • She proposes handing over Sheba (v. 21), balancing justice for the king with mercy for the populace. 5. Wisdom brings life, not destruction • Her counsel saves countless innocents—echoing Proverbs 11:14, “Where there is no guidance, a people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is victory.” Practical Takeaways • Seek voices marked by proven godliness, not just volume or charisma (Proverbs 13:20). • Pause the “siege engines” of impulse—listen before acting (James 1:19). • Value intercessors who stand between disaster and peace; be that person in your home, church, workplace. • Remember collective consequences; wise counsel often protects more than just ourselves. • Recognize God’s pattern: He often delivers through individuals the world overlooks (1 Corinthians 1:27-29). Supporting Scripture • Proverbs 15:22 — “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Ecclesiastes 9:14-18 — A poor man’s wisdom saves a city, yet is easily forgotten. • James 1:5 — “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously…” • Proverbs 24:6 — “Surely you need guidance to wage war, and victory is won through many advisers.” Closing Reflection The unnamed wise woman of Abel Beth-maacah proves that a single, courageous voice—rooted in the fear of the Lord—can redirect armies and rewrite outcomes. Her example urges us to prize and pursue wise counsel in every decision, confident that God still uses it to safeguard His people and accomplish His purposes today. |
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