Daily Devotional for Tuesday, March 25

Wise Words of the Old Men

“And king Rehoboam took counsel with the old men that had stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, saying, What counsel give ye me to return answer to this people?” 2 Chronicles 10:6.

To his credit, King Rehoboam sought the advice of the aged counselors of his father, King Solomon. It is obvious from their answer that these men were students of the Scriptures. Their advice to Rehoboam was to humble himself and become a servant to the people. Instead of being a harsh dictator, be kind and listen to the people. Set an example before them of service, and they will serve and support you forever. This is good advice for any leader. 

Although Rehoboam had grown up under the counsel of the wisest man that ever lived, he had no idea what life in the real world was like. He grew up in a palace. He lived among royalty on both sides of his family. His mother, Naamah, was an Ammonite princess. He obviously had not learned the godly wisdom his grandfather, King David, had passed down to his father, Solomon. 

Teaching and learning are not necessarily synonymous. God’s children are commanded to teach their children and grandchildren (Deuteronomy 4:9; 6:5-7). Senior saints are commanded to teach the young fathers and mothers (Titus 2:1-8). Accompanying instruction, we must also pray that hearers would have ears to hear, eyes to see, and their hearts would be open and receptive to God’s Word. This is good advice for any age.

We would all do well to seek the wise counsel of older godly men and women. We would do well to train our children and grandchildren to respect the authority and wisdom of the generations who have lived and learned before us. Whether you are mentoring your own children, your grandchildren, Sunday School students or young parents in your church, the value of scripturally sound counsel cannot be overstated.

REFLECTION

“The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness” (Proverbs 16:31).

Karen Meigs