Strategic counsel, as depicted in the Bible, plays a significant role in shaping the course of events and the lives of individuals. The Scriptures provide numerous examples where wise or unwise counsel leads to success or failure, underscoring the importance of seeking and heeding godly advice.

Old Testament Examples

1. Jethro's Counsel to Moses: In Exodus 18, Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses, observes Moses' overwhelming burden of judging the people. He advises Moses to appoint capable men to serve as judges for the people, thus delegating responsibilities. Jethro's strategic counsel is heeded by Moses, leading to a more efficient system of governance. This account highlights the value of practical wisdom and delegation: "Now listen to me; I will give you counsel, and God be with you" (Exodus 18:19).

2. Ahithophel and Hushai: In 2 Samuel 15-17, during Absalom's rebellion against King David, Ahithophel, known for his wise counsel, advises Absalom. However, Hushai, a loyal friend of David, provides counter-counsel. Absalom chooses to follow Hushai's advice, which ultimately leads to his downfall. This narrative illustrates the impact of counsel on leadership and the divine orchestration behind human decisions: "The advice of Ahithophel, which he gave in those days, was like inquiring of the word of God" (2 Samuel 16:23).

3. Rehoboam's Folly: In 1 Kings 12, Rehoboam, Solomon's son, seeks counsel on how to respond to the people's request for lighter burdens. The elders advise leniency, but Rehoboam rejects their counsel in favor of the harsh advice from his peers. This decision results in the division of the kingdom. The account serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of ignoring wise counsel: "But Rehoboam rejected the advice of the elders" (1 Kings 12:8).

New Testament Insights

1. The Counsel of Gamaliel: In Acts 5, the respected Pharisee Gamaliel offers strategic counsel to the Sanhedrin regarding the apostles. He advises caution, suggesting that if their movement is of human origin, it will fail, but if it is from God, it cannot be stopped. His counsel reflects a prudent approach to discernment and the recognition of divine sovereignty: "So in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go!" (Acts 5:38).

2. Paul's Missionary Strategy: The Apostle Paul often sought and gave strategic counsel in his missionary journeys. In Acts 16, Paul receives a vision of a man from Macedonia, leading him to conclude that God had called them to preach the gospel there. This strategic decision, influenced by divine guidance, expands the reach of the gospel into Europe: "After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them" (Acts 16:10).

Wisdom Literature

The Book of Proverbs frequently emphasizes the importance of seeking wise counsel. Proverbs 11:14 states, "For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors there is deliverance" . This wisdom literature underscores the collective benefit of strategic counsel in achieving success and avoiding pitfalls.

Conclusion

The biblical narrative consistently affirms the profound influence of strategic counsel. Whether through the wise advice of individuals or the discernment of divine guidance, the Scriptures highlight the necessity of seeking and valuing counsel that aligns with God's purposes.