2
Samuel chapter 17 reminds us that all of the natural ability in the
world will lead to frustration unless it is used to honor God. The
chapter begins with Ahithophel, an advisor to kings, telling Absalom
his bold plan to defeat King David in battle. Remember, Ahithophel
that was considered to be the wisest man alive. 2 Samuel 16:23
explains, “Now
in those days the advice Ahithophel gave was like that of one who
inquires of God. That was how both David and Absalom regarded all of
Ahithophel’s advice“.
Although this man was an expert in the study of God’s law The
Jewish Talmud says of him, “His
devotion to the study of the Law was not founded on worthy motives…
a
man, like Balaam, whose great wisdom was not received in humility as
a gift from heaven, and so became a stumbling-block to him”.
It is interesting to note that even while David was being
disciplined for his rebellion against God, God did not turn His back
on David. 2 Samuel 15:31
says
“Now
David had been told, ‘Ahithophel is among the conspirators with
Absalom.’ So David prayed, ‘O Lord, turn Ahithophel’s counsel
into foolishness’.”
God answered his simple prayer in a mighty way. What a great
reminder to us; it is not the greatness of our prayer that is
important, but the greatness of our God.
Also
remember that David left his faithful servant Hushai behind to spy on
Absalom. After hearing the advice of Ahithophel, Absalom brought in
Hushai. Absalom said, ”
Ahithophel
has given this advice. Should we do what he says? If not, give us
your opinion”.
Hushai replied to Absalom, “The
advice Ahithophel has given is not good this time“.
He explained, “Your
father is an experienced fighter… whose heart is like the heart of
a lion … So I advise you… Let all Israel… be gathered to you
with you yourself leading them into battle“.
His counsel appealed to Absalom’s pride and it gave David time to
escape across the Jordan River. Absalom and all the men of Israel
said, “The
advice of Hushai the Arkite is better than that of Ahithophel“.
And we read, “For
the Lord had determined to frustrate the good advice of Ahithophel in
order to bring disaster on Absalom“.
Hushai then got a word of warning to King David to alert him of the
plan.
The
chapter ends with such great contrast between a now humbled King
David, and the selfish pride of Ahithophel. “When
Ahithophel saw that his advice had not been followed, he saddled his
donkey and set out for his house in his hometown. He put his house in
order and then hanged himself. So he died and was buried in his
father’s tomb“.
Without the approval of the world he was nothing. When David was
advised of Absalom’s plan, “David
and all the people with him set out and crossed the Jordan. By
daybreak, no one was left who had not crossed the Jordan“.
It doesn’t matter if you are up or down today, hear the heart of
God in Jeremiah 9:23: “Let
not the wise man glory in his wisdom, Let not the mighty man glory in
his might, Nor let the rich man glory in his riches; But let him who
glories glory in this, That he understands and knows Me, That I am
the Lord, exercising loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness in
the earth. For in these I delight,” says the Lord.