How can we seek godly counsel instead of worldly advice like Ahithophel's? The Story Behind the Verse 2 Samuel 16:21 — “Ahithophel replied, ‘Sleep with your father’s concubines whom he left to care for the palace. Then all Israel will know that you have made yourself a stench to your father, and the hands of all who are with you will be strengthened.’” • Ahithophel’s counsel was politically shrewd but morally corrupt. • Absalom followed it, deepening his rebellion and hastening judgment (17:14). • The passage spotlights the contrast between worldly brilliance and godly wisdom. Recognizing Worldly Counsel • Appeals to pride, power, revenge, or instant gratification. • Ignores or twists God’s revealed commands. • Relies on human cleverness rather than prayerful dependence. • Sounds persuasive because it flatters the flesh (Proverbs 14:12). Why Godly Counsel Matters • Scripture presents wisdom as life-saving: “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). • Following the wrong voice can derail an entire future—as Absalom discovered. • God promises to guide those who seek Him (Psalm 32:8). Traits of Genuine Godly Counsel • Rooted in clear biblical principles—never contradicts Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Exalts Christ and promotes holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16). • Confirmed by the fruit of the counselor’s own life (Matthew 7:16). • Accompanied by prayer, humility, and dependence on the Spirit (James 3:17). • Willing to say hard things in love (Proverbs 27:6). How to Position Yourself to Receive Godly Counsel 1. Stay in the Word daily—so you recognize truth versus error (Psalm 119:105). 2. Cultivate relationships with mature believers—elders, pastors, seasoned saints (Hebrews 13:7). 3. Pray specifically for wisdom—“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God…” (James 1:5). 4. Invite accountability—give trusted friends permission to speak straight. 5. Listen with a teachable heart—“Do not be wise in your own eyes” (Proverbs 3:7). Warning Signs You’re Listening to an Ahithophel • The advice asks you to compromise integrity “just this once.” • It isolates you from godly influences. • It downplays consequences—“You’ll be fine; no one will know.” • It breeds bitterness or rebellion rather than reconciliation. • It feels urgent: “Act now—don’t pray, just do it.” Key Scriptures for Discernment • Psalm 1:1 — “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked…” • Proverbs 11:14 — “For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors there is deliverance.” • Isaiah 30:1 — “Woe to the rebellious children… who carry out a plan, but not Mine.” • 1 Corinthians 15:33 — “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” Steps to Act on Godly Counsel Today • Identify one current decision; write out relevant verses. • Seek at least two biblically grounded voices for input. • Weigh advice against scriptural truth; reject anything conflicting. • Respond promptly in obedience—“Be doers of the word” (James 1:22). • Give thanks for God’s faithfulness, remembering He leads His children into paths of righteousness (Psalm 23:3). |
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