How does Proverbs 15:22 relate to Rehoboam's actions in 2 Chronicles 10:9? Snapshot of the Two Key Verses Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” 2 Chronicles 10:9: “He asked them, ‘What advice do you give? How should we reply to these people who say to me, “Lighten the yoke your father put on us”?’ ” Proverbs 15:22—God’s Blueprint for Sound Decisions • God affirms that plans collapse when we shut out wise voices. • Success emerges when we submit ideas to the collective insight of trustworthy, God-fearing advisers (see also Proverbs 11:14). • The verse assumes humility, teachability, and a willingness to weigh counsel carefully. Rehoboam’s Fateful Choice in 2 Chronicles 10 • Rehoboam received two very different sets of counsel. – Elders: lighten the tax burden and win the hearts of the people (10:6–7). – Young peers: intensify the load to assert dominance (10:8–11). • He ignored the elders and embraced the brash advice of his friends. • Immediate outcome: the kingdom split; ten tribes rebelled, leaving Judah alone (10:16-19). Connecting the Dots • Proverbs 15:22 promises success through “many advisers,” not merely multiple opinions but a diversity of godly, seasoned voices. • Rehoboam technically consulted “many,” yet he filtered out the true wisdom, illustrating that quantity without discernment does not meet the proverb’s standard. • His failure shows the flip side of the proverb: plans do indeed “fail for lack of counsel,” because disregarded counsel functions as no counsel at all. Supporting Passages That Echo the Principle • 1 Kings 12:8–16 – parallel account showing identical outcome. • Proverbs 19:20 – “Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days.” • James 3:17 – wisdom from above is “peace-loving, gentle, open to reason,” contrasting the harsh tone Rehoboam chose. Take-Home Lessons for Today • Seek advisers who fear God, possess experience, and are willing to speak truth—even when it stings. • Weigh counsel against Scripture; discard advice that contradicts God’s revealed will. • Refusing humble input invites unnecessary loss, but embracing godly counsel positions us for lasting fruitfulness. A Practical Checklist for Decision-Making • Gather counsel early, not as a last resort. • Include voices outside your peer group. • Test every suggestion by the clear teaching of Scripture. • Note any pride or defensiveness rising within and surrender it to the Lord. • Act only when peace, unity, and biblical affirmation align. |
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