What does Bathsheba's interaction with David teach about seeking godly counsel and wisdom? The Setting: A Fragile Throne • David is “very old” (1 Kings 1:15), bedridden, and vulnerable. • Adonijah, seizing the moment, has already proclaimed himself king (1 Kings 1:5–10). • God had earlier revealed that Solomon, Bathsheba’s son, was the chosen heir (1 Chron 22:9–10). The promise is in jeopardy unless someone acts in faith and wisdom. Bathsheba Listens to Godly Counsel • Nathan the prophet alerts Bathsheba to the crisis and outlines a wise, God-honoring plan (1 Kings 1:11–14). • Rather than relying on her own instincts, Bathsheba heeds Nathan’s counsel—an example of Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed”. • Her willingness to partner with a proven man of God shows humility and trust in the Lord’s appointed messengers. Entering the King’s Presence: Humility and Bold Truth • “So Bathsheba went to the king in his bedroom” (1 Kings 1:15). She approaches privately, respectfully, yet purposefully. • Verse 16 adds, “Bathsheba bowed low and knelt before the king.” Her posture models 1 Peter 5:5—“Clothe yourselves with humility.” • She speaks truth without flattery, reminding David of his sworn oath (1 Kings 1:17). Godly counsel is never manipulative; it appeals to truth and covenant. Anchoring Appeal in God’s Promises • Bathsheba’s plea hinges on what God and David had already declared about Solomon (1 Chron 22:9–10). • By aligning her request with divine promise, she mirrors Hebrews 10:23: “Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful”. Wisdom’s Result: Stability and Blessing • David immediately acts, publicly confirming Solomon as king (1 Kings 1:28–35). • A potential civil war is averted; the kingdom realigns with God’s purpose. • James 3:17 describes the fruit Bathsheba’s actions produced: “The wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving…full of mercy and good fruit”. Lessons for Seeking Godly Counsel Today • Seek proven, Scripture-saturated advisors (Proverbs 11:14). • Test counsel against God’s revealed promises; never contradict the Word. • Approach authority figures with humility, not entitlement. • Speak truth plainly, trusting God with outcomes (Ephesians 4:15). • Act promptly when righteous counsel and God’s promise align—delayed obedience risks needless turmoil. • Expect peace and stability when wisdom is followed (Isaiah 32:17). Bathsheba’s quiet yet courageous visit to David shows that God magnifies humble hearts that value righteous counsel, stand on His promises, and act in faith for His ordained purposes. |
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