How should we respond when our counsel is rejected, unlike Ahithophel? The Tragic Benchmark – 2 Samuel 17:23 “When Ahithophel saw that his counsel had not been followed, he saddled his donkey, set out for his house in his hometown. He put his house in order and then hanged himself. So he died and was buried in his father’s tomb.” Why Ahithophel’s Reaction Was Wrong • Pride: he could not bear to be disregarded (Proverbs 16:18). • Despair: he trusted his own reputation more than God’s sovereignty. • Isolation: instead of seeking correction or community, he withdrew and ended his life. Scriptural Principles for Responding When Our Counsel Is Rejected • Remember God’s ultimate rule – “Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail.” (Proverbs 19:21) • Stay humble and teachable – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3) • Guard your heart against offense – “A brother offended is harder to win than a fortified city.” (Proverbs 18:19) – Choose forgiveness quickly (Ephesians 4:31-32). • Listen, reflect, and weigh feedback – “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” (James 1:19) • Keep serving faithfully – “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season.” (2 Timothy 4:2) – Rejected counsel does not cancel our calling. • Cast anxieties on the Lord – “Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7) • Trust God to vindicate truth in His timing – “Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath.” (Romans 12:19) Practical Steps When Your Advice Is Declined 1. Pause and pray before replying. 2. Ask respectful follow-up questions to clarify needs. 3. Evaluate: Was my counsel biblical, clear, loving? 4. Accept the decision without resentment; affirm the person’s freedom to choose. 5. Remain available to help later. 6. Redirect energy to other God-given tasks; don’t dwell on the slight. Encouragement for the Long Haul • God works even through rejected advice: “We know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him.” (Romans 8:28) • Faithfulness is measured by obedience, not by how often people agree with us. • Our identity rests in Christ, never in how our counsel is received. Summary Unlike Ahithophel, we respond to rejected counsel with humility, patience, continued service, and unwavering trust in God’s sovereign purposes. |
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