What can we learn about seeking counsel from 2 Samuel 17:6? Setting the Scene • Absalom has seized the throne and is seeking advice on how to secure his power. • Ahithophel—renowned for insight (2 Samuel 16:23)—has already offered a plan. • Verse 6 records Absalom summoning Hushai to weigh in: “Then Absalom called for Hushai the Archite and said, ‘Ahithophel has spoken thus and thus. Should we carry out his advice? If not, what do you say?’” Observations from Absalom’s Inquiry • He recognizes the value of counsel; he does not act on impulse. • He seeks a second opinion, showing counsel is best tested, not rubber-stamped. • He openly states the first plan, inviting critique—an important step toward honest evaluation. • Yet his motive is self-preservation, not God’s glory, reminding us that the heart behind counsel-seeking matters. Biblical Principles Illustrated • Multiple counselors provide clarity: “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14). • Weigh advice carefully; not every voice is from God (1 John 4:1). • Counsel is meant to align with God’s revealed will. Absalom ignores the Lord’s promise to David (2 Samuel 7), revealing the danger of selective listening. Lessons on Seeking Counsel Today • Seek more than one godly perspective. • Ask counselors to evaluate one another’s ideas; healthy scrutiny exposes weak plans. • Examine motives—are we looking for truth or approval? • Test advice against Scripture; if it conflicts with God’s Word, reject it (Isaiah 8:20). • Pray for discernment: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God” (James 1:5). Practical Takeaways 1. Invite diverse, biblically grounded voices before major decisions. 2. Lay every plan on the table; let trusted believers speak freely into it. 3. Guard against echo chambers—Ahithophel’s reputation nearly swayed Absalom without deeper scrutiny. 4. Submit final choices to the Lord’s authority, not merely human reasoning. Other Scriptures on Godly Counsel • Proverbs 15:22—“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Psalm 1:1—Blessing belongs to those who refuse ungodly counsel. • Proverbs 19:20—“Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days.” Closing Reflection 2 Samuel 17:6 underscores that seeking counsel is wise, but only when coupled with discernment, right motives, and submission to God’s unchanging Word. |
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