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?”

This verse takes place after the death of King Solomon and the ascension of his son, Rehoboam, to the throne. Rehoboam faces a significant challenge as the people of Israel, led by Jeroboam, approach him with a request to ease the heavy burden that Solomon had placed upon them during his reign. The people were looking for relief, hoping for a more reasonable arrangement.

In this verse, Rehoboam seeks counsel from the older advisers who had served his father Solomon. He recognises the wisdom and experience they possess and seeks their guidance in formulating a response to the people’s request. Rehoboam’s choice to consult the older generation shows his desire to approach the matter with careful consideration.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking wise counsel when faced with difficult decisions. Rehoboam understood the significance of seeking advice from those who had served his father faithfully. The older advisers had witnessed Solomon’s reign and had valuable insights into the dynamics of leadership and the desires of the people.

However, the subsequent verses reveal that Rehoboam did not follow the advice of the older advisers. Instead, he sought counsel from his contemporaries, his friends who had grown up with him. They advised him to respond to the people’s request with an even heavier burden, thus exacerbating the situation.

Rehoboam’s decision ultimately led to the division of the kingdom of Israel. Ten tribes broke away, forming the northern kingdom of Israel under Jeroboam’s leadership, while Rehoboam was left with the southern kingdom of Judah. The consequences of his choice demonstrated the importance of heeding wise counsel and considering the needs of the people.