A nation was divided. The chosen people of God, Israel, had split into two separate kingdoms, never again to be united in purpose. Tribe against tribe, brother against brother. What brought about the demise of these blessed people? What was the turning point? What went so terribly wrong? The story is fascinating.
King Solomon had reigned over the united nation of Israel for forty years following the death of his father, David. He is credited with building the temple, that glorious monument dedicated to the worship of Jehovah God. We are reminded in Scripture that “King Solomon passed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom” for God had endued him with that wisdom. Everyone “sought the presence of Solomon” (II Chronicles 9:22, 23); they were drawn to him. When Solomon died, his reign over this chosen people was passed on to his son, Rehoboam.
Rehoboam was a young man, lacking the wisdom to shepherd this great people. Unlike his father Solomon, Rehoboam did not plead with God for the wisdom he lacked, causing him to make a fatal error in judgment. When confronted with his first crucial, decision-making moment, he first sought advice from the “old men who stood before his father.” He went to the elder, seasoned-by-life, men, these wise men who had lived long and experienced much. Rehoboam should have listened to these men, who by virtue of longevity, had grown more attuned to God’s will. He didn’t. He turned to his peers, to “the young men who were brought up with him.” They advised poorly; he listened to their foolish advice and ultimately half of the kingdom was rent from him and a nation would be divided.
God places those with the wisdom of years in our paths for a reason. Those old folks can be irritating; they are slow-paced, stooped, gray-headed, with fading memories and aging bodies. But in those worn-down bodies are encased years of wisdom, wisdom often overlooked. I am thankful to God for placing godly, senior saints in my path for many years, providing support and counsel when I needed it the most. Before flocking to peers for advice, seek out someone who has walked this road for many years and has gained valuable experience along the way. There is much wisdom to be gleaned there. And fellow seniors, be available and patient to those youngsters who may desperately need your love, understanding, and guidance today.
Proverbs 19:20 Hear instruction, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in the latter days.
Thank You, Lord, for giving us elders to guide us in Your path; help us to glean from them. Thank You for those senior saints who have made an impact in my life, coming along side of me, guiding my steps. Their patience and wisdom were on glorious display for me. Help me to be that mentor for those who follow me.