How can we apply the wisdom of seeking godly counsel in our decisions? Context and Lesson from 2 Samuel 17:15 • “Then Hushai said to Zadok and Abiathar the priests, ‘This is what Ahithophel has counseled Absalom and the elders of Israel, and this is what I have counseled.’ ” • Two streams of advice stand in stark contrast: Ahithophel’s brilliant but ungodly strategy versus Hushai’s counsel that ultimately protected David and preserved God’s chosen line. • The passage reminds us that the counsel we accept can either hasten disaster or secure blessing. Why God Commands Us to Seek Godly Counsel • God often directs His people through trusted, Spirit-filled voices (Exodus 18:19–24; Acts 13:1–3). • “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14) • Seeking counsel is an act of humility, acknowledging that wisdom originates with the Lord, not within ourselves (Proverbs 3:5–7). • It guards against self-deception and impulsive choices (Jeremiah 17:9). Marks of Counsel Worth Hearing • Rooted in Scripture—counselors measure every suggestion against God’s Word (Psalm 119:105). • Prayer-saturated—wise advisers pray with you and for you (Colossians 1:9). • Character over charisma—look for consistent obedience and a proven walk with God (Hebrews 13:7). • Courage to speak truth, even if it disagrees with you (Proverbs 27:6). • Unity with other godly voices—sound counsel usually resonates with multiple mature believers (2 Corinthians 13:1). Practical Steps to Apply This Wisdom 1. Pause before deciding. Build time into every major decision for counsel-seeking. 2. Identify two or three mature believers you will contact regularly—pastor, elder, seasoned friend, or mentor. 3. Present the full situation honestly; conceal nothing (Proverbs 12:22). 4. Weigh counsel alongside personal study of Scripture and earnest prayer (James 1:5). 5. Look for peace that aligns with God’s revealed will, not mere comfort (Philippians 4:6-7). 6. Obey promptly once clarity comes; delayed obedience often invites confusion (Psalm 119:60). Guardrails: Counsel to Decline • Advice that contradicts clear biblical commands (Galatians 1:8). • Counsel driven by worldly success alone (1 John 2:15-17). • Input from habitual scoffers or mockers of God (Psalm 1:1). • Echo chambers that merely confirm your preferences (Proverbs 18:1-2). • Pressure-based advice demanding immediate, unexamined action (Proverbs 19:2). Encouragement for Every Decision • “Commit your works to the LORD and your plans will be achieved.” (Proverbs 16:3) • “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5) • We can move forward confidently, knowing that the same God who guided David through faithful Hushai delights to guide us today when we intentionally seek His counsel through His Word and His people. |
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