How does 2 Samuel 20:17 demonstrate the importance of seeking wise counsel today? Context of 2 Samuel 20:17 • “When he had come near to her, the woman asked, ‘Are you Joab?’ ‘I am,’ he replied. ‘Listen to the words of your servant,’ she said. ‘I am listening,’ he answered.” (2 Samuel 20:17) • A lone “wise woman” from Abel-beth-maacah steps forward as Joab prepares to besiege the city. • Her simple request—“Listen”—and Joab’s immediate response—“I am listening”—set the stage for a peaceful resolution that spares countless lives. What the Exchange Reveals about Wise Counsel • Wise counsel is often found in unexpected voices (a woman in a war zone, not a ranked officer). • True wisdom speaks with humility: “your servant.” • God-given counsel is concise and solution-oriented, aiming for life, not destruction. • The one in authority must choose to pause and listen; Joab’s willingness shows leadership strength, not weakness. Timeless Principles We Can Apply 1. Seek it out—Joab approached the wall; he didn’t wait for solutions to come to him. 2. Verify the source—“Are you Joab?” / “I am.” Credibility matters on both sides. 3. Give full attention—“I am listening.” Wisdom requires undistracted ears. 4. Act on it—Joab follows her plan (vv. 20-22); counsel unused is counsel wasted. Scripture Echoes that Underscore the Lesson • Proverbs 11:14—“For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors, there is deliverance.” • Proverbs 15:22—“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Exodus 18:13-24—Moses heeds Jethro and preserves his strength. • 1 Samuel 25—David listens to Abigail and avoids bloodshed. • 1 Kings 12—Rehoboam rejects the elders’ advice and splits the kingdom. • James 1:5—“Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God…” Practical Ways to Pursue Wise Counsel Today • Start with Scripture—the unchanging foundation (Psalm 19:7; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Pray for discernment before, during, and after conversations (Philippians 4:6-7). • Seek godly, experienced believers: pastors, elders, mature friends, older family members. • Invite multiple perspectives, then weigh them against the Word. • Remain teachable; humility keeps ears open (Proverbs 13:10). • Follow through promptly—delayed obedience dulls wisdom’s edge. Blessings That Flow from Heeding Godly Advice • Protection from rash decisions (Joab avoids needless bloodshed). • Preservation of relationships and resources. • Clear testimony to outsiders of God’s peace-making power. • Growth in personal humility and spiritual maturity. • Increased confidence that decisions align with God’s revealed will. Final Takeaway One short conversation at a city wall illustrates an enduring truth: lives, families, and nations are spared when people pause to listen to God-centered counsel. Following the wise woman’s model—and Joab’s readiness to hear—keeps us safely in the path of wisdom today. |
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