What role does divine wisdom play in the counsel given in 2 Samuel 15:35? Setting the Scene - 2 Samuel 15 outlines Absalom’s rebellion. - David sends his friend Hushai back to Jerusalem to serve as a counter–counselor to Absalom. - David counts on a discreet network—Hushai, the priests Zadok and Abiathar, and their sons—to protect the kingdom. Key Verse “Will not Zadok and Abiathar the priests be there with you? So report to them everything you hear from the king’s palace.” (2 Samuel 15:35) Divine Wisdom at Work in 2 Samuel 15:35 - God’s wisdom directs David to transform his apparent weakness (leaving Jerusalem) into strategic advantage. - The priests’ presence provides a God-ordained communication line; wisdom sees and uses spiritual offices for practical ends. - Hushai’s role foreshadows how God often plants righteous counsel “inside the gate” to frustrate ungodly schemes (cf. 2 Samuel 17:14). How This Wisdom Operates • Protective Guidance – God’s wisdom shields the covenant line by turning Absalom’s plot against itself. – Similar pattern: Esther 4:14; God positions His servants where decisive influence is needed. • Strategic Discernment – David discerns that priests, respected for their sanctity, can move freely without arousing suspicion. – Proverbs 2:6: “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” • Cooperative Obedience – Hushai, Zadok, Abiathar, Ahimaaz, and Jonathan each submit to the plan; divine wisdom often flows through collective obedience (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). • Fulfillment of Promise – God had sworn to uphold David’s throne (2 Samuel 7:13-16). Wisdom here serves that covenant purpose. Supporting Passages - James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God… and it will be given to him.” David’s actions reflect a life practiced in seeking God’s direction. - Isaiah 55:9: “My ways are higher than your ways.” Divine wisdom eclipses Ahithophel’s celebrated counsel. - 1 Corinthians 1:25: “The foolishness of God is wiser than men.” Even humble messengers like priests’ sons carry a wisdom stronger than political scheming. Takeaways for Today - Dependence on God’s wisdom turns adversity into opportunity; He still positions people and circumstances for His purposes. - Spiritual roles (pastors, elders, believers gifted with discernment) remain vital conduits for wise counsel. - When facing opposition, seek God’s strategy rather than reacting in fear; His wisdom is proactive, precise, and preservative. |
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