The leaders of Israel summoned him, and
Jeroboam and the whole assembly of Israel went to speak with Rehoboam.
"Your father was a hard master," they said. "Lighten the harsh
labor demands and heavy taxes that your father imposed on us. Then we will be
your loyal subjects." Rehoboam replied, "Give me three days to think
this over. Then come back for my answer." So the people went away. Then
King Rehoboam discussed the matter with the older men who had counseled his
father, Solomon. "What is your advice?" he asked. "How should I
answer these people?" The older counselors replied, "If you are
willing to be a servant to these people today and give them a favorable answer,
they will always be your loyal subjects." But Rehoboam rejected the advice
of the older men and instead asked the opinion of the young men who had grown
up with him and were now his advisers. "What is your advice?" he
asked them. "How should I answer these people who want me to lighten the
burdens imposed by my father?" The young men replied, "This is what
you should tell those complainers who want a lighter burden: 'My little finger
is thicker than my father's waist! Yes, my father laid heavy burdens on you,
but I'm going to make them even heavier! My father beat you with whips, but I
will beat you with scorpions!'" Three days later Jeroboam and all the
people returned to hear Rehoboam's decision, just as the king had ordered. But
Rehoboam spoke harshly to the people, for he rejected the advice of the
older counselors. 1 Kings 12:3-13
How often do you ask others for advice and
then reject their advice? I’ve found myself asking for suggestions from family
and friends about home remodeling projects—but then not taking their advice. So
far we’re only replacing doors—we haven’t started the really big bathroom
remodeling. When it comes down to it will my husband and I reject others’
advice? Not quite the same as Rehoboam rejecting his advisors’ guidance, but
similar. When we don’t listen to others are we not listening to God either?
What advice or instruction have you received from God lately? Some things that
we hear over and over are to love God with all your heart, soul, mind and
strength, as well as to love your neighbor as yourself. These are commands from
God…not just suggestions. Do we totally, wholeheartedly do
Prayer
~Lord, give us wisdom to follow Your advice first and foremost in our lives.
Guide us with Your Word that we would make good choices for ourselves and with
our families and friends.
© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT)
unless otherwise noted.
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