1 Chronicles 27:32-34
Jonathan, David's uncle, was a counselor, being a man of understanding and a scribe. He and Jehiel the son of Hachmoni attended the king's sons. Ahithophel was the king's counselor, and Hushai the Archite was the king's friend. Ahithophel was succeeded by Jehoiada the son of Benaiah, and Abiathar. Joab was commander of the king's army.
Tag: Seeking Counsel is Wise
In the end chapters of this book King David is making provision for the building of the Temple. He is assuring that his son, Solomon, will have all he needs to be successful and complete the task. David has outlined everything that needs to be done. It is a masterful succession plan. (It is interesting that Solomon benefits from this and never does the same for his son, Rehoboam, years later.)
David has provided treasure keepers, singers, warriors, gatekeepers, and many more positions. David has outlined the actual weight of the gold, iron, bronze and other materials. In the above passage, however, we see him provide young Solomon a great resource: Counselors. Many leaders struggle with reaching out for input from others. In a society that believes leaders must be strong, asking for a counselor, to some, appears weak. God is the God who gives counsel. He often gives counsel through the voice of other men. Joesph gave counsel to Pharaoh. David gave counsel to Nebuchadnezzar. Great leaders seek counsel. Solomon learned from this counsel. Note what he would eventually write in Proverbs:
Proverbs 11:14
Where there is no guidance, a people falls,
but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.
Proverbs 24:6
for by wise guidance you can wage your war,
and in abundance of counselors there is victory.
Solomon learned from counsel. He saw safety and victory from seeking the counsel of others.
However, it should be noted that the counsel David heard from his uncle, Jonathon (who would be Solomon’s guide) gave him Godly wisdom. Jonathon spoke God’s word. Joseph spoke God’s word to Pharaoh. Daniel spoke God’s word to Nebuchadnezzar. Getting counsel is not wise. Getting Godly counsel is wise.
These men spoke great counsel to Solomon. His words in Proverbs show that he understood the difference between losing to wisdom vs listening to foolishness. Those who reject God are said to be fools (Psalm 14:1). When we take counsel from fools we will be like them. When we take counsel from fools and from God’s Word we will be confused. When we take counsel ONLY from God’s Word we have the promises of God in full affect. It is wise to hear and obey God’s counsel.
Proverbs 20:18
Plans are established by counsel;
by wise guidance wage war.
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