What can we learn about godly counsel from Bathsheba's interaction with Solomon? Setting the Scene • 1 Kings 2 opens with King David’s final instructions to Solomon. • Adonijah, who had tried to seize the throne, now asks Bathsheba to request Abishag the Shunammite as his wife—a move Solomon immediately recognizes as a renewed bid for power. • Bathsheba answers, “Very well, I will speak to the king for you” (1 Kings 2:18). Key Observations from 1 Kings 2:18 • Bathsheba is approachable—Adonijah knows she listens. • She is willing to intercede, but she does not promise a result—only to speak. • Her words are concise and without embellishment; she neither flatters nor scolds. • The verse sits in a larger narrative reminding us that motives matter; not every request deserves approval. Principles for Giving Godly Counsel • Be available yet discerning – Proverbs 20:18: “Plans are established by counsel, so make war with sound guidance.” – Availability opens doors, but discernment keeps us from endorsing folly. • Seek full understanding before you speak – Proverbs 18:13: “He who answers a matter before he hears it—this is folly and disgrace to him.” – Bathsheba first listens to Adonijah, then approaches Solomon to hear his response. • Guard neutrality, but never compromise righteousness – Exodus 23:2 warns against following a crowd in wrongdoing; counsel must remain anchored in truth, not sentiment. • Rely on relationship yet submit to God’s order – Bathsheba’s maternal status grants her audience; still, Solomon’s throne—and God’s covenant promise to David’s line—holds greater weight. Principles for Receiving Godly Counsel • Honor the counselor, weigh the counsel – Solomon rises, bows, and seats Bathsheba at his right hand (1 Kings 2:19), showing respect, yet he rejects Adonijah’s scheme. – Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Abundance of advice does not replace discernment. • Expose hidden motives with truth – Hebrews 4:12: God’s word “judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Solomon measures Adonijah’s request against covenant promises and national security. • Act decisively once the matter is clear – Solomon’s swift response (1 Kings 2:22–25) prevents greater rebellion, illustrating James 1:22: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” Lessons for Modern Believers • Be the kind of person others trust enough to approach, yet be spiritually alert to hidden agendas. • Listening is ministry; agreeing is not obligatory. • Respect earthly relationships while prioritizing God’s revealed will. • When seeking counsel, value honest feedback over comfortable affirmation. • When giving counsel, speak plainly, stay scriptural, and leave outcomes to God. |
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