CHOOSE WISELY

David’s reign over Israel is interrupted by Absalom, David’s son, who usurps the throne. David is forced to flee from Jerusalem and as he flees with his family and supporters, many choose to support him (2 Samuel 15). Ittai the Gittite, Ziba, servant of Mephibosheth, Barzillai, the Gileadite, and others were able to choose wisely and stick with David despite his adversity (2Samuel 16,17). However, we also read in this account of others like Shimei who curses David, Mephibosheth, grandson of Saul who was hoping for the restoration of Saul’s dynasty and Ahithopel, counselor, who decided to advise Absalom in his endeavor to annihilate David. In fact, Ahithopel was the most regarded counselor in Israel and his advice was like the oracle of God. Yet, he was unable to stick with David and on the contrary, did his best to destroy David. As the story unfolds, we see God intervening and bring about the death of Absalom and restoring the kingdom to David. Every person who abandons David ends up faring poorly- Ahithopel and Shimei die prematurely and Mephibosheth loses his position at the king’s table and also half his estate. There are consequences to poor choices.

Those who did choose to stick to David were able to discern that David was indeed the chosen one and that any adversity they saw with David would be temporary. It is easy to stick to what works well. However, when things don’t go so well, it is not so easy. How can one choose wisely?

It begins with uniting oneself with God. It is only in union with God that man finds fulfilment of his purpose. We were created to sync with God and when man cuts himself off from God, he reduces himself to a pale shadow what he could be. On the contrary, when a person receives Jesus as his Savior and Lord, he places himself in a position of greatest potential union with the ultimate Light that shines from God. 

Receiving the right guidance is the next step. Be it parenting, mentorship in life or apprenticeship at work, receiving guidance is key to choosing wisely. Are there people we trust to give us good advice? Are there resources we can use to receive the correct input to help us choose wisely? And no resource can match the wisdom and timeliness of the Bible in guiding us along the pathway of abundance and safety.

Discernment of God’s will, learning from experience, having a long-term perspective, not allowing emotions to control you and being willing to go through adversity in your journey are all characteristics that help a pilgrim to choose wisely as he meanders through this difficult journey here on earth. Choices have consequences and it is always tragic to study the history of people who choose poorly. We are left wondering ‘what if’, as we consider their lives and the consequences that followed poor decisions.

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