2 Chronicles 10:8

But he forsook the counsel which the old men gave him, and took counsel with the young men that were brought up with him, that stood before him.

2 Chronicles 10:8 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the account of Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, who became king after his father’s death. The people of Israel, led by Jeroboam, asked Rehoboam to lighten the heavy labor and taxes that Solomon had placed on them. Rehoboam first consulted the older men who had served his father. They advised him to be kind and to lighten the people’s burden. Then he turned to the young men who had grown up with him and stood before him as his attendants.

Meaning

The phrase “stood before him” shows that these young men were his personal courtiers, not merely friends. They lacked the experience of the older advisors who had governed under Solomon. Rehoboam rejected the counsel of the aged and chose the advice of his peers. The contrast is not simply about age but about proven wisdom. The older men understood the people’s needs; the young men did not. Their advice led Rehoboam to answer the people harshly, which caused the kingdom to split.

Biblical connections

The parallel account in 1 Kings 12:8 records the same event, confirming its historical importance. Both passages show that Rehoboam’s choice was a turning point. He forsook wisdom and followed pride. The result was division among God’s people, with the northern tribes separating from Judah.

Application

This verse warns against surrounding ourselves with people who only agree with our own desires. Wise counsel often comes from those with more experience and godly insight. When making important decisions, we should seek advice from mature believers and test every counsel against God’s Word. Rehoboam’s failure reminds us that rejecting wise guidance can bring harm to many. The danger of pride is real; it can blind us to the truth. We must be humble enough to listen, even when the advice is hard to hear.

Reflection

Consider how you respond to advice that challenges your plans. Do you listen to the aged and experienced, or do you prefer the voices that flatter you? True wisdom humbles itself to learn from others. Rehoboam’s story calls us to value godly counsel and to avoid the pride that leads to ruin. Let us seek the counsel of those who know God deeply, and let us weigh every word against Scripture.