2 Chronicles 10:6

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 (KJV)

Context

After Solomon’s death, his son Rehoboam became king. The people of Israel, led by Jeroboam, asked him to lighten the heavy burdens Solomon had placed on them. In this verse, Rehoboam turns to the older men who had served as advisers to his father. The phrase “stood before Solomon” shows they were trusted counselors in his court. Rehoboam’s question, “What counsel give ye me to return answer to this people?” reveals that he recognized their wisdom and wanted their guidance before responding.

Meaning

Rehoboam’s action demonstrates a prudent first step: seeking advice from those with experience. The elders had witnessed Solomon’s reign and understood the people’s needs. Their counsel, as the following verses show, was to serve the people and speak good words to them, which would have secured their loyalty. This verse highlights the importance of seeking wise counsel, especially from those with godly wisdom and long experience.

Biblical connections

The parallel account in 1 Kings 12:6 confirms the historical nature of this consultation. Later, Rehoboam forsook the elders’ advice and followed the counsel of his younger contemporaries (2 Chronicles 10:8, 13). That decision led to the division of the kingdom: ten tribes broke away under Jeroboam, leaving Rehoboam with only Judah. The contrast between seeking counsel and heeding it is central to the narrative.

Application

Seeking counsel is only beneficial when we are willing to follow it. Rehoboam asked the right question but later rejected the answer. In our own decisions, we should humbly consider advice from mature believers, especially those who have walked with God for many years. Wisdom often comes through the aged and experienced, and humility in receiving advice is crucial for godly leadership.

Reflection

How do we respond when wise counsel challenges our preferences? Rehoboam’s story warns us that pride and impatience can undo the benefits of good advice. May we not only seek wisdom but also have the humility to obey it, trusting that God often speaks through the experience of others.