“Without wise leadership, a nation falls;
there is safety in having many advisers” (Proverbs 11:14)
It’s human nature to surround ourselves with those we agree with – an echo chamber where our beliefs and actions are reinforced by the repetition by “insiders” and insulated from rebuttal by “outsiders”.
In the Book of Esther we read the story of King Xerxes and his appalling leadership of the Persian Empire. His so-called advisors encouraged many awful decrees that are made in response to gluttony, wrath, lust, greed, sloth, envy and pride (all of the 7 deadly sins!).
As a result, the Empire came to the brink of collapse with all the people confused and bewildered by the king’s poor leadership (Esther 3:15). It’s only through the stubborn protection of Mordecai that the king survives assassination and through God-incidences that an annihilation of a people group is prevented.
Mordecai’s niece Hadassah demonstrates throughout the story the value of listening and following wise advice. Mordecai advises her to hide her nationality by taking on the Persian name Esther. Hegai, the King’s eunuch, advises her how best to approach the king. She in turn calls her people to join in fasting and praying for God’s protection and deliverance during the crisis. Disaster is averted and Xerxes “wisely” appoints Mordecai to be his new Prime Minister. Chapter 10 describes how this benefits the whole nation.
Do you have wise counsellors in your life? It’s worth checking and cultivating good ones!
With grace and peace, Mark