Bad Advice

Read 1 Kings 12:1–16:34

3. Jeroboam and the whole assembly of Israel went to speak with Rehoboam.
4. “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.”
5. Rehoboam replied, “Give me three days to think this over. Then come back for my answer.”. . .
6. 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?”
7. 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.”
8. 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. 1 Kings 12:3-8

When was the last time you got some bad advice? Did you have any clue that the counsel had cracks in it? Or was it your own foolish fault for listening in the first place?

In this reading, Solomon’s death brings about a national crisis. After Solomon’s successor, Rehoboam, listens to the bad advice of poor counselors, he makes unwise and unpopular decrees. The northern tribes of Israel then revolt and set up their own kingdom under Jeroboam. Only the southern tribes of Judah and Benjamin remained loyal to Rehoboam. We can’t entirely blame the northern rebels for their actions—Rehoboam helps them along, whether he realizes it or not. As you read this passage, look for the strong lesson about seeking wise counsel and rejecting bad advice.

Other lessons in this section of Scripture include being careful in what you accept as messages from God; how not to pick church leaders; the consequences of flagrant disregard for God’s commands; and what happens to those who don’t learn from the mistakes of their parents (Baasha).

At a time when he really needed it, Rehoboam asked for advice. That was a great idea, but he didn’t carefully evaluate what he was told, nor did he weigh the quality of the advisors (1 Kings 12:6-14). It’s no wonder that Rehoboam rejected the greater wisdom of his elders in favor of that of his peers. It’s often difficult for those who are younger to listen to those who are older. The young may think that the old don’t understand them, the current times, or anything, well enough. Or perhaps they just lack the humility to submit to their elders even though they see the wisdom of their counsel.

When receiving advice, carefully evaluate it, asking if it is realistic, workable, and consistent with biblical principles. The next time you ask for advice, determine if the results of following it will make improvements and give a positive solution or direction. Seek counsel from those who are wiser and more experienced. Advice is helpful only if it is consistent with God’s standards.