How can we apply Hushai's wisdom in our decision-making today? Setting the Scene “Then Hushai replied to Absalom, ‘This time the counsel Ahithophel has given is not good.’ ” (2 Samuel 17:7) Hushai, loyal to King David yet standing in Absalom’s court, is faced with a crisis moment. Ahithophel’s plan sounds logical, but Hushai senses it will end in disaster. With measured words he turns the tide. His discernment models principles that still guide wise, God-honoring decisions today. Pause and Weigh Every Counsel • Hushai listens fully before speaking. • He measures Ahithophel’s idea against God’s promises to David (2 Samuel 7:16). • Proverbs 18:13 reminds, “He who answers a matter before he hears it — this is folly and disgrace to him.” Application: – Resist impulsive “yes” or “no.” – Ask, “Does this align with God’s revealed will?” – Compare any advice with Scripture; truth never contradicts truth. Seek a Broader Perspective • Hushai highlights weaknesses Ahithophel ignores: David’s skill, the morale of seasoned warriors, and the risk of panic (17:8-10). • Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Application: – Map out best-case and worst-case scenarios. – Invite godly voices who will challenge blind spots. – Refuse echo chambers; wisdom flourishes where viewpoints are tested. Time as a Tool, Not an Enemy • Hushai suggests gathering “all Israel” (17:11-12), buying David time to regroup. • Ecclesiastes 3:1: “To everything there is a season…” Application: – Recognize moments when delay protects. – Use waiting seasons to pray, research, and prepare. – Avoid haste that forces premature commitments (Proverbs 19:2). Align Plans with Covenant Loyalty • Hushai’s loyalty is first to the Lord’s anointed. • Psalm 119:30: “I have chosen the way of truth.” Application: – Anchor major decisions in covenant commitments: marriage vows, church membership, integrity before God. – Never sacrifice faithfulness for short-term gain. – Ask, “Will this choice honor my God-given responsibilities?” Communicate with Gracious Courage • Hushai confronts Absalom respectfully, yet firmly: “This time…the counsel…is not good.” • Colossians 4:6: “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt.” Application: – Speak the truth without venom. – Address problems, not personalities. – Courage plus courtesy earns a hearing. Trust God’s Sovereign Hand • Behind the scene, “the LORD had purposed to thwart the good counsel of Ahithophel” (17:14). • Proverbs 19:21: “Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail.” Application: – Plan diligently, yet rest in God’s overruling power. – Submit outcomes to Him: “Your will be done” (Matthew 6:10). – When doors close, view them as divine protection, not mere setbacks. Practical Checklist for Modern Decisions 1. Pray for insight (James 1:5). 2. Gather all pertinent facts. 3. Listen to multiple godly advisers. 4. Measure every option by Scripture. 5. Consider timing—rush or wait? 6. Clarify covenant loyalties. 7. Communicate decisions graciously. 8. Commit results to God’s sovereignty. Living It Out Hushai’s wisdom was not a one-time display of cleverness; it flowed from reverence for God, loyalty to truth, and confidence in divine sovereignty. When we approach choices—whether career moves, family matters, or daily priorities—with the same posture, we too can turn crises into testimonies of God’s faithful guidance. |
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