Listening to Unconventional Advice

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Verses:2 Samuel 24:3-4,10

"But Joab said to the king, 'May the Lord your God multiply the troops a hundred times over, but, my lord the king, are they not all my lord's servants? Why does my lord the king want to do this?... David was conscience-stricken after he had counted the fighting men, and he said to the Lord, 'I have sinned greatly in what I have done. Now, Lord, I beg, take away the guilt of your servant. I have done a very foolish thing.'"

In the biblical account of 2 Samuel 24, we see an interesting exchange between King David and his army commander, Joab. David, driven by a desire to know the strength of his army, orders a census of the fighting men. Joab, aware of the potential consequences of such an action, demonstrates remarkable courage by speaking out against the king's decision. Despite being a man of revenge, Joab's primary concern was the betterment of the kingdom, and he knew that the census would bring harm to the nation.

What is striking about this narrative is Joab's willingness to warn David, despite the potential risks of opposing the king. Joab's courage in speaking truth to power is a testament to his loyalty to the kingdom and his commitment to doing what is right. His advice, though not necessarily rooted in spiritual motivations, was nonetheless wise and prudent. However, David insisted on proceeding with the census, which ultimately led to devastating consequences.

This narrative serves as a powerful illustration of the importance of listening to unconventional advice. As leaders, we often surround ourselves with people who share our vision and values. However, it is precisely the unconventional advice, the dissenting voice, that can help us avoid pitfalls and make more informed decisions.

In our relationship with God, we would do well to remember that He often speaks to us through unexpected channels. The prophet Isaiah reminds us that God's ways are not our ways, and His thoughts are not our thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9). As we seek to follow God's leading, we must remain open to unconventional advice, even if it challenges our preconceptions or forces us to consider alternative perspectives.

David's failure to listen to Joab's advice led to devastating consequences. May we learn from his mistake and cultivate a willingness to listen to unconventional advice, trusting that God may be speaking to us through unexpected channels. May we also learn from Joab's courage to speak truth to power, and may we be willing to take risks to do what is right.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, help us to remain open to unconventional advice, even when it challenges our preconceptions or forces us to consider alternative perspectives. May we trust that You may be speaking to us through unexpected channels, and may we cultivate a willingness to listen and obey. Give us the courage to speak truth to power, and may we be willing to take risks to do what is right. Amen.

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