How does Isaiah 36:3 demonstrate the importance of wise counsel in leadership? Setting the Scene • The Assyrian army has surrounded Jerusalem. • Israel’s king, Hezekiah, does not meet the enemy spokesman himself; instead, he sends trusted officials: – “Eliakim son of Hilkiah, who was over the household, Shebna the scribe, and Joah son of Asaph, the recorder” (Isaiah 36:3). • This deliberate delegation highlights the role of seasoned advisers when crisis strikes. Key Observations from Isaiah 36:3 • Qualified men are named, not anonymous messengers—leadership selects counselors of proven character. • Three different offices appear: palace administrator, scribe, recorder. Each brings a distinct skill set—administration, communication, and documentation. • Their unified front before the enemy underscores teamwork; wise counsel works best in plurality. • Hezekiah’s choice to consult rather than confront shows humility—an essential trait for seeking guidance (cf. Proverbs 11:2). Supporting Passages • Proverbs 11:14: “For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors there is deliverance.” • Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Proverbs 24:6: “Only with sound guidance should you wage war, and victory lies in a multitude of counselors.” • 2 Kings 18:18 (parallel account) confirms these same advisers stood between Jerusalem and the Assyrian threat, reinforcing Scripture’s literal consistency. Implications for Leadership Today • God expects leaders to surround themselves with godly, competent counselors. • Diversity of gifts—administration, communication, record-keeping—protects against blind spots. • Crisis does not negate the need for counsel; it amplifies it. • Wise counsel safeguards both leader and people from rash decisions. Practical Steps to Cultivate Godly Counsel • Identify believers of proven faithfulness and skill; invite them into decision-making circles. • Value differing perspectives—administrative, spiritual, strategic. • Test counsel against Scripture’s clear teaching (Acts 17:11). • Maintain humility that seeks advice before acting (James 1:19). Takeaway Isaiah 36:3 is more than a historical note; it models God’s pattern for leadership that listens, collaborates, and leans on trustworthy advisers. Wise counsel is not optional—Scripture presents it as a God-ordained safeguard for leaders and those they serve. |
    |