How does Nathan's intervention connect with Proverbs 15:22 on seeking counsel? Opening Passage “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” — Proverbs 15:22 Nathan’s Intervention: Counsel in Living Color • 2 Samuel 12:1-7 recounts God sending Nathan to David after the king’s sin with Bathsheba. • Nathan tells a vivid parable of a rich man stealing a poor man’s lone lamb, sparking David’s righteous anger. • Then comes the piercing statement: “You are the man!” (v. 7). • The counsel is direct, truthful, and rooted in God’s revealed standard, exposing sin so that David can repent. Why Nathan’s Counsel Mirrors Proverbs 15:22 • David acted in isolation; his secrecy bypassed wise voices, and his “plans” spiraled into adultery, deceit, and murder—classic evidence that “plans fail for lack of counsel.” • Nathan steps in as an “adviser,” turning David’s course from failure toward restoration, illustrating the second half of the proverb: “with many advisers they succeed.” Key Parallels 1. Source of Counsel – Proverbs stresses the general need for multiple advisers. – God personally appoints Nathan, showing the ultimate Adviser behind every faithful counselor (cf. Isaiah 9:6; Psalm 73:24). 2. Timing – Counsel arrives after David’s initial plan has already collapsed, highlighting mercy: it’s never too late for wise input. 3. Method – Nathan employs story, Scripture, and conviction—diverse tools within godly counsel (Hebrews 4:12). 4. Outcome – David confesses, “I have sinned against the LORD.” (2 Samuel 12:13). – Though consequences remain, fellowship with God is restored—success measured in spiritual terms, not convenience. Supporting Scriptures on Counsel • Proverbs 11:14: “For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors it is delivered.” • Proverbs 20:18: “Set plans by consultation, and wage war with sound guidance.” • Galatians 6:1: “Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness.” Practical Takeaways • Invite godly voices early; secrecy breeds failure. • Value counselors who love you enough to confront sin. • Measure “success” by restored obedience and fellowship, not by avoiding discomfort. • Remember that every faithful human adviser ultimately channels the perfect counsel of God’s own Word. |
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