How can we discern wise counsel in our lives, reflecting on 1 Kings 12:9? Setting the Scene 1 Kings 12:9: “He asked them, ‘What counsel do you advise we give to this people who have spoken to me, saying, “Lighten the yoke your father put on us”?’ ” • King Rehoboam faced a pivotal decision. • Two sources of advice stood before him: seasoned elders (vv. 6–7) and the young men he grew up with (vv. 8-11). • Rejecting godly wisdom, he embraced flattering voices, igniting a national split (vv. 16-19). Foundational Principles for Discernment • Scripture is the final authority (2 Timothy 3:16). • God freely supplies wisdom when we ask (James 1:5). • Human hearts are deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9); therefore, all counsel must be tested. Marks of Wise Counsel • Conforms to God’s revealed Word • Promotes humility and servanthood, not self-promotion • Seeks the welfare of others, not personal gain • Is willing to speak hard truths in love – Proverbs 27:6; Ephesians 4:15 • Comes from those who model obedience to Christ – Hebrews 13:7; 1 Corinthians 11:1 • Produces peace and righteousness, not strife Warning Signs of Foolish Counsel • Appeals to pride, power, or immediate comfort • Ignores or twists clear Scripture • Disparages godly voices as “old-fashioned” or “out-of-touch” • Encourages rash decisions without prayer • Is rooted in peer pressure or fear of man (Proverbs 29:25) • Lacks accountability or proven fruit Practical Steps to Discern Counsel 1. Pray first; invite the Holy Spirit to guard your heart (John 16:13). 2. Open your Bible; compare every recommendation with clear passages. 3. Seek multiple godly perspectives (Proverbs 11:14; 15:22). 4. Examine motives—both yours and the adviser’s. 5. Watch for the fruit of the Spirit in the adviser’s life (Galatians 5:22-23). 6. Allow time; urgent pressure often signals poor wisdom. 7. Choose obedience over popularity, even if you stand alone. Living It Out • Surround yourself with believers who consistently honor Christ. • Memorize verses on wisdom (e.g., Proverbs 3:5-7; 13:20). • Keep short accounts with God; a tender conscience sharpens discernment. • When counsel aligns with Scripture and peace follows, move forward in faith (Colossians 3:15). Scriptures to Anchor Your Decisions • Psalm 1:1 – “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked…” • Proverbs 19:20 – “Listen to counsel and receive instruction, that you may be wise in your latter days.” • Proverbs 24:6 – “For by wise guidance you will wage your war, and in an abundance of counselors there is victory.” • Isaiah 30:21 – “Your ears will hear this command behind you: ‘This is the way; walk in it,’ when you turn to the right or to the left.” |
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