Solomon’s son, Rehoboam, was an arrogant fool. His foolishness was manifested in an ego the size of ancient Persia, which resulted in him always believing he was the smartest person in the room.
Ever known (or worked with) someone like that? Me too, unfortunately.
One of the metanarratives of the Old Testament book of Proverbs is “pay attention to wise counsel.” Below are some of the proverbs Solomon (Rehoboam’s father) wrote, that his son refused to learn.
11:14 – Without guidance, a people will fall, but with many counselors there is deliverance.
12:15 – A fool’s way is right in his own eyes, but whoever listens to counsel is wise.
13:10 – Arrogance leads to nothing but strife, but wisdom is gained by those who take advice.
15:22 – Plans fail when there is no counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.
19:20 – Listen to counsel and receive instruction so that you may be wise later in life.
20:18 – Finalize plans with counsel, and wage war with sound guidance.
24:5-6 – A wise warrior is better than a strong one, and a man of knowledge than one of strength; for you should wage war with sound guidance – victory comes with many counselors.
What I write next is of extreme importance:
Solomon is not referring to just *any* counsel, but rather godly, biblically based counsel.
Back to Rehoboam…
If you read Rehoboam’s story in 1 Kings 12, you’ll find that he actually started out wisely, asking people who trusted God and had life experience ( they’d “been around the block” a number of times.) But, because of his arrogance, the historian records:
“But he rejected the advice of the elders who had advised him and consulted with the young men who had grown up with him and attended him.” (Vs 8)
His friends’/good ol’ boys’ advice was equally arrogant and myopic and lined up with the juvenile mentality of Rehoboam. So that’s the advice Rehoboam took.
And how does God describe the behavior of people like Rehoboam?
“One who hates correction is stupid.” And, “A fool does not delight in understanding, but only wants to show off his opinions.” (Prov 12:1; 18:2)
Children, listen to the counsel of your parents.
Spouses, listen to the counsel of your spouse.
Employees, listen to the counsel of your colleagues and boss.
Bosses, listen to the counsel of your employees.
Most of all, listen to the counsel of Jesus through his Word and in prayer. He is our “Wonderful Counselor.” (Isaiah 9:6)
nick