What can we learn about seeking wise counsel from Rehoboam's actions in 1 Kings 12? Setting the Scene Rehoboam steps into kingship after Solomon’s death, immediately facing a united Israel asking for lighter burdens. Instead of relying on the seasoned elders who served his father, he turns to young peers who share his ambition for power. Key Verse: Rehoboam’s Response 1 Kings 12:13: “And the king answered the people harshly. He rejected the advice given him by the elders.” What Went Wrong? • He dismissed experienced voices that had walked with Solomon and seen the nation thrive. • He elevated inexperienced advisers whose counsel flattered his ego. • His harsh answer flowed from pride, not servant-hearted leadership. • The result was immediate division: ten tribes rebelled and formed the northern kingdom. Biblical Principles for Seeking Wise Counsel • Seek God-fearing advisers. Proverbs 9:10 reminds us, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.” The elders feared God; the young men did not. • Value experience. Proverbs 20:29: “The glory of young men is their strength, and the splendor of old men is their gray hair.” • Look for unity with Scripture. True counsel aligns with God’s revealed Word (Psalm 119:24). • Test motives. James 3:17: “The wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle...” Rehoboam’s peers offered self-serving advice, not peaceable wisdom. • Consult a multitude. Proverbs 11:14: “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” He had abundance—but chose only the voices he liked. Consequences of Ignoring Godly Counsel • Division of a kingdom (1 Kings 12:16-19). • Generational fallout: civil war, idolatry, and eventual exile. • Personal loss of influence; Rehoboam ruled a fraction of what Solomon left him. Examples of Positive Counsel • Moses and Jethro (Exodus 18:17-24): Moses listened, delegated, and the nation benefited. • David and Nathan (2 Samuel 12): David’s repentance shows humility before godly correction. • Early Church (Acts 15): Leaders sought collective wisdom, preventing division. Practical Steps for Us Today • Pray for discernment before adopting advice (James 1:5). • Invite correction from mature believers who walk closely with the Lord. • Compare every suggestion to Scripture; if it contradicts God’s Word, reject it. • Beware of echo chambers—friend groups that merely affirm our preferences. • Choose humility over pride; wise counsel often challenges, refines, and redirects. Closing Thoughts Rehoboam’s story underscores that the counsel we choose shapes our destiny. Seeking advice rooted in reverence for God, tested by Scripture, and seasoned with humility safeguards us from costly decisions and keeps us aligned with His purposes. |
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