2 Samuel 17:6
And when Hushai was come to Absalom, Absalom spake unto him, saying, Ahithophel hath spoken after this manner: shall we do after his saying? if not; speak thou.
2 Samuel 17:6 (KJV)
Context
Absalom has rebelled against his father, King David, and has taken the throne in Jerusalem. David has fled. Ahithophel, a counselor known for wise advice, has proposed an immediate attack on David. Absalom now asks Hushai, who is secretly loyal to David, to give his own judgment on that plan. This is a critical moment in the rebellion, for the next step will be decided by the counsel Absalom chooses to follow.
Meaning
Absalom’s question, “shall we do after his saying? if not; speak thou,” invites Hushai to speak freely. The verse captures a moment of decision, where human wisdom and hidden loyalty meet. Hushai’s answer, given in the following verses, will counter Ahithophel’s advice and change the course of events. Though Hushai’s loyalty to David remains hidden, his words will serve David’s cause and ultimately fulfill God’s purpose.
Biblical connections
The narrative later explains that the Lord had determined to defeat Ahithophel’s counsel in order to bring disaster on Absalom (2 Samuel 17:14). This shows that God’s sovereignty works through human decisions, even when people are unaware of His hand. Here, a loyal servant becomes the means of protecting God’s anointed king.
Application
This verse teaches the value of seeking counsel, but also the need to test advice against God’s wisdom. Not every plan, however clever, is right for the moment. Believers should weigh counsel carefully and pray for discernment. Loyalty to God and His purposes may require hidden faithfulness, as Hushai showed. Even when circumstances seem dark, God can use a faithful servant to protect His anointed and to fulfill His promises.
Reflect on your own loyalty to God, remaining steadfast even when facing conflicting advice.
Evaluate advice against Scripture and seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance before deciding.
Trust that God orchestrates events for ultimate good, even when situations appear dire.
Exercise patience and seek divine wisdom before acting, avoiding rash decisions.
Reflection
God’s providence often works through ordinary conversations and decisions. Hushai’s response, though given in a moment of political crisis, became part of a larger plan to preserve David and to fulfill God’s covenant promises. This encourages believers to remain faithful in small and hidden roles, knowing that God sees and uses their service. When we are asked for our opinion, we may not know the full outcome, but we can trust that God is at work. He can turn even a rebel’s request for advice into a step toward His own purposes.
