In 1 Kings 12:8, Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and grandson of David, had just become king.
After Solomon’s death, Rehoboam took the throne. The people of Israel, tired of the hard work and heavy taxes during Solomon’s reign, came to Rehoboam with a request. They asked him to make their workload easier. Rehoboam first asked the elders who had served his father for advice. They told him to be kind to the people and lighten their load. This would make the people loyal to him.
However, Rehoboam also asked the young men he had grown up with for their advice. These peers told him to make the people’s burdens even heavier, to show that he was strong and in control. Rehoboam followed the advice of his peers. This decision caused the kingdom to split. Ten tribes rebelled and formed the northern kingdom of Israel, leaving Rehoboam with only the tribes of Judah and Benjamin.
“But he forsook the counsel of the old men, which they had given him, and consulted with the young men that were grown up with him, and which stood before him.” I Kings 12:8
Rehoboam’s choice to ignore the wise advice of the elders and listen to his peers was a big mistake. This story shows us the danger of relying only on the advice of people who lack experience and wisdom.
The Bible teaches us the importance of seeking wise advice. Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.”
In Proverbs 12:15, we read, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.”
It is wise to listen to those who have already faced similar challenges and have gained wisdom through their experiences.
Peers often have the same level of experience as us. While their advice might be well-meaning, it lacks the understanding that comes from years of learning and experience. Those who have already been through what we are facing can give us valuable advice and guidance.
Rehoboam did not ask God for wisdom. If we lack wisdom, God tells us to ask Him. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
Rehoboam’s decision to ignore the elders and listen to the younger peers led to the division of his kingdom. This story reminds us how important it is to seek wise and experienced counsel. While peers can offer support, the advice of those who have already walked our path is invaluable. First, we should go to God for wisdom. Second, we should seek advice from those who live a life that exemplifies the life we want to lead. By doing this, we will find guidance that leads to peace and success.
