What role does humility play in seeking and accepting advice, as seen here? Setting the Scene 1 Kings 12:14: “and spoke to them as the young men had advised, saying, ‘My father put a heavy yoke on you; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips, but I will scourge you with scorpions.’ ” • King Rehoboam inherited a united kingdom and a moment of decision. • Two groups offered counsel: the seasoned elders urged mercy; the younger peers urged harshness. • Pride chose the louder, harsher voices; humility was absent, and the nation fractured. The Heart Issue: Humility versus Pride • Humility listens first, speaks later (Proverbs 13:10). • Pride assumes self-sufficiency and despises correction (Proverbs 12:15). • A teachable spirit delights the Lord because it acknowledges His ultimate wisdom working through others. Scripture Connections • Proverbs 11:2 — “When pride comes, disgrace follows, but with humility comes wisdom.” • James 1:19 — “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” • Philippians 2:3–4 — “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves.” • 1 Peter 5:5 — “Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’ ” • Proverbs 24:6 — “Surely you need guidance to wage war, and victory is won through many advisers.” Consequences of Pride • Division: Ten tribes rebelled, fulfilling God’s warning (1 Kings 11:31). • Loss of influence: Rehoboam kept only Judah and Benjamin, drastically reducing his reach. • Ongoing strife: The northern and southern kingdoms remained at odds for generations. • Missed blessing: Humility could have preserved unity and peace. Blessings of Humility in Counsel • Access to collective wisdom and life experience. • Protection from blind spots and impulsive decisions. • Advancement of God’s purposes through cooperative hearts (Proverbs 15:22). • Strengthened relationships built on mutual respect. Practical Takeaways for Today • Invite voices that have walked with God longer than you. • Measure advice against Scripture, not ego. • Welcome correction as an act of God’s love. • Choose gentle words that lighten burdens rather than increase them. • Remember that every decision made in humility submits to the Lordship of Christ and opens the door to His blessing. |
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