What scriptural connections exist between Josiah's actions and Proverbs 11:14 on counsel? Setting the Scene • Josiah begins to reign at eight years old (2 Kings 22:1). • He inherits a kingdom steeped in idolatry after the reigns of Manasseh and Amon. • Despite the national climate, Josiah “did what was right in the eyes of the LORD” (2 Kings 22:2). Proverbs 11:14—The Guiding Principle “For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors there is deliverance.” (Proverbs 11:14) Josiah’s Search for Godly Counsel 1. Discovery of the Book of the Law • Hilkiah the high priest finds it in the temple (2 Kings 22:8). • Shaphan the scribe reads it to Josiah (2 Kings 22:10). 2. Immediate Response • Josiah tears his clothes—an act of repentance (2 Kings 22:11). 3. Assembling Counselors • He dispatches Hilkiah, Shaphan, Ahikam, Achbor, and Asaiah to “inquire of the LORD” (2 Kings 22:12-13). • The team consults the prophetess Huldah (2 Kings 22:14-20). How Josiah Modeled Proverbs 11:14 • “Many counselors” in action: priest, scribe, royal officials, and a prophetess. • Seeking insight rather than ruling on impulse. • Humility: he submits to the Word when it convicts him. • Result: God promises, “Your eyes will not see all the disaster” (2 Kings 22:20)—a direct illustration of “deliverance” through counsel. Parallel Illustrations in Scripture • David regularly inquired of the LORD through Abiathar (1 Samuel 23:9-12). • Jehoshaphat gathered Levites to teach the Law, stabilizing Judah (2 Chronicles 17:7-10). • Rehoboam ignored seasoned counselors, and Israel split (1 Kings 12:6-20)—the negative side of Proverbs 11:14. Fruit of Obedient Counsel • National Reform: Idols smashed, altars burned, high places desecrated (2 Kings 23:4-20). • Covenant Renewal: “He made a covenant… to follow the LORD” (2 Kings 23:3). • Restored Worship: The Passover kept “as it had not been observed… since the days of the judges” (2 Kings 23:22). • Temporary Stay of Judgment: Though exile would still come, Josiah’s reign enjoyed relative peace (2 Chronicles 34:28). Lessons for Today • Godly leadership invites multiple voices rooted in Scripture. • Counsel must drive us toward obedience, not mere information. • Collective submission to God’s Word positions a family, church, or nation for mercy and stability. |
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