“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:” – 1King 12:8(KJV)
Every proper child requires the guidance of the parents to navigate the slippery terrain of life. Despite your kingship lineage you need the elders with experience to advise on issues. Experience cannot be easily wished away. It is needed for progress to avoid pitfalls. All through the scriptures, references are made on the God of our fathers. Counsel based on experience and the will of God is refreshing and assuring. If God in heaven understands the very vital roles of elders, that they have a place around His throne, who is mere mortals to assume otherwise. Rehoboam who was supposed to show wisdom considering that the father Solomon was the wisest man on earth, fell short of expectation. This was because God presence was not sought for. He relied on human wisdom contrary to his father who sought God’s wisdom. The bible says in Job 12:12 “With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days understanding” Rehoboam lost major part of his kingdom by working with foolish counsel. Proverbs 13:10(KJV) “Only by pride cometh contention; but with the well advised is wisdom”. In Rehoboam’s case the bible says “Wisdom is too high for a fool:” – Proverb 24:7a(KJV). As a King set over in leadership, his constituency for advice on national issue should be thg Elders council not his age mates. It is expected that he should have consultants employed in the palace for issues such as these.
My dear reader what is written are for us to learn from. The experience of Rehoboam should advise us on how to go about matters of such nature. The decision we make today is what creates our future, it can be positive or negative effect. Foolish counsel and irresponsible association has destroyed and distorted so many intended glorious destinies..
Prayer: O’LORD grant me wisdom, knowledge and understanding commensurate to successfully finish this race, in Jesus name.
Bro. Joel Ezeugo