Shaping Your Life

“Rehoboam rejected the advice of the elders and instead asked the opinion of the young men who had grown up with him and were now his advisers.”—1 Kings 12:8 NLT

Rehoboam could have had the best advice possible. The grandson of David and son of Solomon, he became king of Israel at a time when sensitive issues were being debated.

He could have prayed, sought God’s leading, and examined the principles found in God’s Word. He could have sought God for discernment or examined decisions made by others, learning from their experiences. He could have sought the recommendations of Israel’s elders and studied examples from history. He could have applied insights taught by his father and grandfather.

Instead, he turned to friends who guided him in the wrong direction. The result was disaster and the division of the kingdom.

The Bible provides many examples of the importance of having the right influences. We need to be careful who we allow to advise us and to whom we listen when we need to make decisions.

Who are the people helping shape your life? Where are you turning when you need to make decisions? Books? The examples encouraged in the media? Advice you receive from social media?

Think about the decisions you need to make. Be careful to whom you listen and what you are reading. Remember, place your confidence in God. Seek the wisdom found in His Word. Pray about problems you face and seek His guidance. Stay sensitive to His Spirit. Trust Him to help you make wise decisions.

Reflection Question: What situation are you seeking advice for currently?