“When Wisdom Is Not Heeded”

Week 3
Main Point and Overview:  

Life is about a series of important choices. When you make one, you eventually will realize the consequence either good or bad. Rehoboam was given a golden opportunity. As the son of Solomon, he was next in line to take leadership over all of Israel. Would he take advantage of this opportunity, or would he “blow it?” Right away, he was faced with an important decision. In the latter years of Solomon’s reign, the king made some poor decisions including putting unjust demands on the people leading them to great discouragement. Rehoboam had an opportunity to “rewrite this injustice,” but instead of listening to wise and experienced advisors, he listened to his friends and made things harder on the people. How many times do we fail to listen to experienced and wise people who genuinely have our best interests in mind? It is easy to “think we have all the answers,” especially in our youth. Making that mistake has consequences. Ultimately, Rehoboam could have been a servant-leader winning the hearts of his people, but he missed a golden opportunity. Jesus saw the disciples on the verge of making the same mistake, and he corrected them before it happened. Every person is faced with important decisions every day of their lives. We need trusted sources – pastors, mentors, coaches. Are we listening to them? Rehoboam underestimated the consequences of his immature decision. As a result, he split the kingdom. Some people followed him, and some people followed other leaders. It was the opposite of what God wanted for his people. Instead of peace, there was war. Instead of unity, there was dissension. Instead of joy, there was bitterness. What opportunities are God presently giving to you? Are you taking them seriously by listening to trusted advisors? People matter to God, and how you treat them matters. Realize that when God gives you an opportunity for influence, you cannot take it for granted. On the other hand, when God gives you an opportunity to “speak wisdom” to your kids, coworkers, neighbors, etc., you must take advantage of it. Ultimately, our choices have ripple effects on the lives of others and even ourselves. Be wise enough to “listen,” and be smart enough to know that it will bless you and others.