What role does seeking wise counsel play in decision-making, as seen in 1 Kings 1? A crisis in the palace—why counsel was needed (1 Kings 1:21) “Otherwise, when my lord the king rests with his fathers, I and my son Solomon will be counted as criminals.” • David is bedridden; Adonijah has rushed to claim the throne. • Bathsheba and Nathan recognize that if David does nothing, God’s chosen heir—Solomon—will be swept aside, and their lives endangered. • Their appeal shows that decisive action often begins with clear, faithful counsel. Wise counsel on display—Nathan and Bathsheba working together • Nathan the prophet knows God’s word about Solomon (2 Samuel 7:12–13; 1 Chronicles 22:8–10). • He approaches Bathsheba first (1 Kings 1:11–14), modeling discreet, strategic communication. • Bathsheba respectfully presents the issue to David (vv. 15–21). • Nathan confirms her words (vv. 22–27), providing a second witness (Deuteronomy 19:15). • Result: David acts at once, declaring, “Solomon your son is to be king after me” (v. 30). What this teaches about godly counsel • It aligns with previous revelation—God had already promised Solomon the throne. • It seeks the welfare of others, not personal gain (Philippians 2:4). • It is timely; delays would have cost lives (Proverbs 15:23). • It is courageous—approaching a king could be dangerous, yet silence would have been worse (Proverbs 24:11). Scriptures reinforcing the value of wise counsel • Proverbs 11:14: “For lack of guidance, a people falls, but with many counselors there is deliverance.” • Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.” • Contrast: Rehoboam’s ruin after listening to reckless peers (1 Kings 12:6–11). Consequences of heeding or ignoring counsel Heeded (David): • God’s promise upheld; Solomon crowned (1 Kings 1:38–40). • Peaceful transition; national stability. Ignored (Adonijah & later Rehoboam): • Plans unravel; judgment follows (1 Kings 1:49–53; 12:19). • Personal loss and widespread damage. Bringing it home—how to seek wise counsel today • Start with Scripture; measure every suggestion against God’s Word (Psalm 119:105). • Look for advisers known for reverence, maturity, and proven faithfulness (Hebrews 13:7). • Invite honesty—“Faithful are the wounds of a friend” (Proverbs 27:6). • Weigh counsel prayerfully, asking God for clarity and courage to obey. Wise counsel, rooted in God’s truth and delivered in love, steers decisions toward His good purposes—just as it preserved Solomon’s rightful throne and protected David’s legacy. |
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