In what ways can we seek and heed godly advice in our lives? Amaziah’s Missed Opportunity 2 Chronicles 25:16: “While he was still speaking, the king said to him, ‘Have we appointed you the king’s counselor? Stop! Why be struck down?’ So the prophet stopped but said, ‘I know that God has determined to destroy you because you have done this and have not listened to my advice.’” Why This Moment Matters • Amaziah rejects a prophet sent by God. • His pride cuts short the conversation—and his future. • The episode shows the split-second where guidance is either treasured or tossed. Pursuing Counsel the Right Way • Seek voices that fear God first (Proverbs 9:10). • Choose people proven in obedience, not just success (Psalm 1:1). • Invite several counselors; “victory is won through many advisers” (Proverbs 11:14). • Open Scripture together—God’s Word is the final filter (Acts 17:11). • Pray before, during, and after the conversation (James 1:5). Posture for Hearing • Approach with humility (James 1:19). • Listen through to the end—Amaziah cut the prophet off. • Ask clarifying questions instead of mounting defenses. • Weigh motives: Am I protecting ego or pursuing truth? • Write down what you hear; reflection slows impulsive reactions. Steps to Act on Godly Advice 1. Compare it with Scripture—never contradicts God’s Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17). 2. Confirm through prayer; peace follows obedience (Philippians 4:6-7). 3. Obey promptly—delayed obedience often becomes disobedience (Psalm 119:60). 4. Invite accountability; give your counselor permission to follow up (Hebrews 3:13). 5. Give thanks and testify when counsel bears fruit (Psalm 107:2). Cautionary Tales & Positive Models • Rehoboam ignored elders, split a kingdom (1 Kings 12). • David listened to Nathan, found restoration (2 Samuel 12). • Jehoshaphat sought prophets before battle, gained victory (2 Chronicles 18:4). • Amaziah silenced truth, lost everything (our verse). Consequences of Dismissing Counsel • Loss of protection—“Plans fail for lack of counsel” (Proverbs 15:22). • Hardened heart—resistance today breeds rebellion tomorrow (Hebrews 3:15). • Missed blessings—God’s wisdom is a shield we lay aside at our own peril. Living It Out This Week • Identify one mature believer you can approach for prayerful advice. • Schedule an unhurried conversation, Bible open. • Bring one decision you’re facing; commit to follow Scriptural guidance. • Share how you obeyed—encourage others to do the same. |
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