How does 2 Samuel 17:4 illustrate the importance of seeking wise counsel? Setting the Scene • Absalom has rebelled against his father David (2 Samuel 15–16). • Ahithophel—once David’s trusted advisor—now counsels Absalom. • Hushai, loyal to David, is also present, seeking to counter Ahithophel’s strategy (2 Samuel 15:32–34). Key Verse “This proposal pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel.” (2 Samuel 17:4) Seeing the Power of Counsel in 2 Samuel 17:4 • One man’s words sway a prince and a nation’s leaders in a single moment. • The verse shows how quickly people embrace counsel that sounds persuasive—without measuring it against God’s truth. • The elders’ agreement gives Ahithophel’s plan the force of national policy; counsel, therefore, directs destinies. Counsel That Sounds Wise but Lacks Godliness • Ahithophel’s advice is militarily astute (17:1–3) but furthers betrayal and bloodshed. • What “pleased…all the elders” displeased the Lord, who later “ordained to frustrate the sound counsel of Ahithophel” (17:14). • Lesson: not every plan that appears smart or popular is righteous. Scripture’s Call to Seek Wise Counsel • “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14) • “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22) • “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach.” (James 1:5) Marks of Godly Counsel 1. Rooted in God’s Word (Psalm 119:24). 2. Spoken by faithful, righteous people (Psalm 1:1; Proverbs 27:9). 3. Confirmed by prayer and the Spirit’s peace (Philippians 4:6-7). 4. Aligns with God’s character—holy, loving, just (Micah 6:8). Practical Takeaways • Measure advice by Scripture, not popularity. • Gather multiple, godly perspectives before major decisions. • Pray for discernment; God still overrides counsel that opposes His purposes (2 Samuel 17:14). • Recognize the influence your own words carry; speak truth that honors Christ (Ephesians 4:29). |
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