In what ways can we apply Hushai's wisdom in our daily interactions? Setting the Scene 2 Samuel 16:16 records, “When Hushai the Archite, David’s friend, came to Absalom, Hushai said to Absalom, ‘Long live the king! Long live the king!’” • Hushai has just slipped into Absalom’s rebel camp. • He remains loyal to David yet speaks in a way that secures Absalom’s trust. • God later uses his counsel (2 Samuel 17:14) to overturn Ahithophel’s advice and protect David. What Made Hushai Wise? • Loyal at heart, honest before God—his allegiance never wavers from David, the anointed king (2 Samuel 15:32–37). • Discerning in speech—he chooses words that are true (“Long live the king”) yet strategically ambiguous. • Courageous—he steps into enemy territory rather than watch events from a safe distance. • Submissive to God’s providence—Hushai serves as the means by which “the LORD had ordained to thwart the good counsel of Ahithophel” (2 Samuel 17:14). Practical Ways to Imitate Hushai Today Guard Your Allegiance • Stay anchored to Christ’s lordship even when pressured to compromise (Matthew 6:24). • Keep loyalty to biblical truth ahead of personal gain or group approval (Acts 5:29). Speak with Discernment • Ask, “Will my words advance God’s purposes?” before speaking (Proverbs 13:3). • Combine honesty with prudence; avoid needless offense while never shading the truth (Proverbs 15:23). • Remember, “The lips of the righteous feed many” (Proverbs 10:21). Use Influence for Righteous Ends • Where God has given access—workplace, school, community—shape outcomes toward justice and mercy (Micah 6:8). • Seek openings to turn conversations, decisions, or policies away from harm and toward life—just as Hushai steered Absalom’s plans. Stand Courageously in Risky Spaces • Wisdom is not passive; sometimes it walks into tension to protect others (Esther 4:14). • Trust God’s sovereignty when obedience puts you in uncomfortable places (Psalm 37:5). Rely on Divine Wisdom • Ask God for insight daily: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God” (James 1:5). • Stay in Scripture; wisdom begins with “the fear of the LORD” (Proverbs 9:10). Echoes of Hushai in Other Verses • Matthew 10:16—“Be as shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves.” • Colossians 4:5—“Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of every opportunity.” • Proverbs 16:23—“A wise man’s heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction.” This Week’s Take-Along List 1. Identify one setting where you can quietly redirect a conversation or plan toward righteousness. 2. Before difficult interactions, pray through James 1:5 and Proverbs 3:5–6. 3. Practice measured, truthful speech—say only what builds up (Ephesians 4:29). 4. Review your loyalties: confirm they align with Christ, not convenience. 5. Remember God’s oversight; even small acts of wisdom can shift outcomes far beyond what you see (2 Samuel 17:14). |
    |