How does Rehoboam's decision reflect the importance of seeking godly counsel today? Setting the Scene 1 Kings 12:6 records Rehoboam’s pivotal moment: “Then King Rehoboam consulted with the elders who had served his father Solomon during his lifetime. ‘How do you advise me to respond to these people?’ he asked.” Standing on the threshold of leadership, Solomon’s son starts well—he seeks counsel. Yet the story quickly shows how the kind of voices we heed shapes destinies. What Rehoboam Got Right—Initially • He recognized the need for input; no one is above counsel. • He turned first to seasoned men who had proved faithful under Solomon’s reign. • He asked an open-ended question, showing a willingness (at least outwardly) to listen. Where the Turn Went Wrong 1 Kings 12:8 reveals the critical reversal: “But Rehoboam rejected the advice of the elders…and consulted the young men who had grown up with him.” • He dismissed long-tested wisdom for peer opinion. • Pride crept in; harshness seemed stronger, more “kingly.” • The result: the kingdom split, fulfilling God’s warning (1 Kings 12:16-19). Scripture Echoes on Godly Counsel • Proverbs 11:14: “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in a multitude of counselors there is safety.” • Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Psalm 1:1 contrasts blessedness with walking “in the counsel of the wicked.” • James 1:5 urges believers to “ask God, who gives generously,” reminding us that divine counsel is always available. Timeless Principles Drawn from Rehoboam’s Choice • Seek counsel early, not merely to rubber-stamp a decision already made. • Weigh advice by spiritual maturity, not by comfort level or age similarity. • Test counsel against God’s revealed Word; Scripture never contradicts itself. • Humility guards the heart; pride pushes away life-giving input. • The ripple effect is real—leadership choices influence families, churches, even nations. Practical Ways to Pursue Godly Counsel Today • Cultivate relationships with older, biblically grounded believers. • Invite feedback before decisions are finalized; keep an open notebook, not a locked diary. • Compare every piece of advice with Scripture—Acts 17:11 commends the Bereans for this diligence. • Pray for discernment (Philippians 1:9-10) so the Spirit highlights counsel that aligns with truth. • Accept correction promptly; Proverbs 12:1 reminds, “He who hates correction is stupid.” A Call to Wisdom Rehoboam’s story underscores that whom we choose to hear will steer the course we take. Listening to godly counsel is not optional for spiritual health; it is part of walking wisely with the Lord who still guides His people through His Word and through faithful voices today. |
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