How can we discern God's will when facing conflicting advice today? Conflicting Counsel at Absalom’s War Room “Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said, ‘The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel.’ For the LORD had ordained to thwart the good counsel of Ahithophel so that the LORD could bring disaster on Absalom.” (2 Samuel 17:14) What We Learn Right Away - Two respected advisers offered opposite plans. - Absalom chose the weaker plan, yet God’s will still advanced. - Scripture credits the outcome to the LORD’s direct determination, not to chance. Lesson 1 – God Reigns over Every Opinion - Proverbs 19:21: “Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail.” - When advice clashes, remember: God is never cornered. His plan stands behind, above, and through every human voice. Lesson 2 – Recognize the Agenda behind Advice - Ahithophel’s “good counsel” (strategically wise) served Absalom’s rebellion; Hushai’s counsel was designed to buy time for David. - Proverbs 12:5: “The plans of the righteous are just, but the counsel of the wicked leads to deceit.” - Discern not only what advisers say but why they say it. Lesson 3 – Test Advice by the Written Word - Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” - Isaiah 8:20: “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn.” - Any counsel contradicting clear Scripture is automatically rejected. Lesson 4 – Ask for Heavenly Wisdom - James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously… and it will be given to him.” - 1 Kings 3:9 shows Solomon praying for “an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil.” - Prayer is not a formality; it is accessing the Author of truth. Lesson 5 – Listen for the Spirit’s Witness - Romans 8:14: “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.” - John 10:27: “My sheep hear My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” - The Spirit never contradicts the written Word but applies it personally, granting inner conviction that aligns with Scripture. Lesson 6 – Watch for Providential Confirmation - In 2 Samuel 17 God orchestrated timing, messenger speed, and even geography (Jordan crossing) to confirm His will. - Acts 16:6-10 shows doors closing and opening until Paul received the Macedonian call. - God often corroborates right counsel through circumstances He alone can weave together. Practical Checklist When Advice Clashes • Compare every option with clear biblical commands and principles. • Identify each adviser’s motive—kingdom-oriented or self-serving? • Pray specifically for wisdom and a united heart (Psalm 86:11). • Pay attention to the Spirit’s peace or restraint (Colossians 3:15). • Look for providential signs that consistently point one direction. • Move forward in faith, trusting God’s overruling hand even if the path feels weaker—He can “thwart” or “establish” as He chooses. Encouragement for Today Like David, you may stand seemingly outnumbered by expert opinions. Yet the same Lord who steered an enemy’s war council oversees every piece of advice you receive. Stay anchored in His Word, dependent on His Spirit, and confident that His purpose will prevail. |
    |