How can we apply the principle of listening to wise counsel in our lives? Setting the Scene—1 Kings 12:4 “Your father put a heavy yoke on us, but now lighten the harsh labor and heavy yoke your father put on us, and we will serve you.” What We Learn from Rehoboam’s Mistake • The people asked for relief; Rehoboam sought counsel. • The elders urged compassion and servant leadership (vv. 6–7). • The younger peers pushed pride and harshness (vv. 8–11). • He chose the louder, flashier advice—and the kingdom split (vv. 16–19). Lesson: whose voice we heed shapes destinies, not just decisions. Why Wise Counsel Matters to God • Proverbs 15:22—“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Proverbs 11:14—“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but with many counselors there is deliverance.” • Proverbs 13:20—“He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” • James 1:19—“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” Scripture repeatedly ties listening to safety, success, and spiritual growth. Recognizing True Wisdom Today Look for counselors who… • Exhibit the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7). • Anchor advice in Scripture, not trends. • Display humility and proven character (Matthew 7:16—“by their fruit”). • Have no personal agenda in your outcome. • Are willing to tell you what you need to hear, not just what you want to hear (Galatians 4:16). Practical Steps for Seeking and Heeding Counsel 1. Pray first for discernment (James 1:5). 2. Gather input from mature believers—mentors, pastors, seasoned friends. 3. Listen fully before reacting; take notes, ask clarifying questions. 4. Compare every suggestion with clear biblical teaching; reject anything that contradicts it. 5. Weigh motives—both yours and theirs. 6. Act promptly once convinced; delayed obedience invites confusion. 7. Circle back to thank those who spoke into your life; it deepens community. Guardrails Against Unwise Voices • Beware of echo chambers that only affirm your preconceived plans. • Resist pressure to decide faster than you can pray. • Watch for flattery—it often masks self-interest (Proverbs 29:5). • Distance yourself from chronically negative or cynical advisers (Psalm 1:1). Living It Out This Week • Identify one decision on your horizon—large or small. • Seek at least two godly perspectives before finalizing it. • Spend time in Proverbs during your devotions, underlining every verse on counsel. • Commit to act on the wisdom you receive, trusting God to honor obedience. Rehoboam shows us what happens when we sidestep seasoned, godly advice. By welcoming wise counsel—and filtering it through Scripture—we align ourselves with God’s design for blessing, unity, and lasting impact. |
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