2 Samuel 17-18

April 6

2 Samuel 17-18

Everyone is quick to give advice, but not all advice is good. Absalom was given advice from Ahithophel  and from Hushai. They gave different approaches to conquering David and his men and giving Absalom control over Israel. Absalom did not realize that Hushai was still loyal to David. He sent messengers to warn David of Absalom’s plans. The bible tells us that the Lord frustrated the good advice of Ahithophel in order to bring disaster upon Absalom.

These stories from the Old Testament can bring confusion to the modern reader. God is working against Absalom while also disciplining David. Absalom ended up getting his head caught in a tree and was killed by David’s men. When the report came to David, he mourned at the death of his son instead of celebrating the demise of his enemy.

Sometimes God works in ways that we cannot see. He works behind the scenes. He brings dissenting views. Notice David sought God’s advice over the advice of men. Absalom did not seek God’s advice, he sought the advice of men. James tells us; "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." (James 1:5, NIV) When we have decisions to make, it is alright to seek wise counsel, but the best counsel comes from God. If we seek His direction, He will show us His way instead of the way of men.