2 Samuel 17:5-14
5 Nevertheless, Absalom said, “Now call Hushai the Archite also, and let’s hear what he has to say.”
6 When Hushai had come to Absalom, Absalom said to him, “Ahithophel has proposed this plan. Should we carry out his plan? If not, say so yourself.”
7 So Hushai said to Absalom, “This time the advice that Ahithophel has given is not good.”
8 Then Hushai said, “You yourself know your father and his men, that they are warriors and they are fierce, like a bear deprived of her cubs in the field. And your father is an expert in warfare, and he will not spend the night with the people.
9 Behold, he has now hidden himself in one of the ravines, or in another place; and it will be that when he falls on them at the first attack, whoever hears it will say, ‘There has been a slaughter among the people who follow Absalom!’
10 And even the one who is valiant, whose heart is like the heart of a lion, will completely despair; for all Israel knows that your father is a mighty man, and those who are with him are valiant men.
11 But I advise that all Israel be fully gathered to you, from Dan even to Beersheba, like the sand that is by the sea in abundance; and that you personally go into battle.
12 Then we will come to him in one of the places where he can be found, and we will fall on him just as the dew falls on the ground; and of him and of all the men who are with him, not even one will be left.
13 And if he withdraws into a city, then all Israel shall bring ropes to that city, and we will drag it into the valley until not even a pebble is found there.”
14 Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said, “The advice of Hushai the Archite is better than the advice of Ahithophel.” For the Lord had ordained to foil the good advice of Ahithophel, in order for the Lord to bring disaster on Absalom.
Hushai’s Advice
Absalom’s anxiety
In the previous passage, the brilliant strategist Ahithophel had proposed a swift attack on David. Though this was a truly masterful plan, Absalom seemed to feel a certain uneasiness about it. Consequently, he wanted to hear the opinion of another advisor, Hushai. But Hushai was actually a spy sent by David. Absalom’s wavering heart was caused by God’s intervention. Let us remember that God governs even the hearts of people and let us pray that the hearts of those in leadership positions would be changed according to His will.
Hushai’s wisdom
Hushai, when asked for his advice by Absalom, answered with remarkable wisdom. (1) He said, “This time the advice that Ahithophel has given is not good.” In this way, he acknowledged Ahithophel’s general skill as a counselor while subtly pointing out that this particular plan was flawed. (2) Hushai aimed to delay the surprise attack, giving David time to prepare. He argued, “Even if you aim to kill only David, remember that he is a battle-hardened warrior and is probably hiding in a cave or some other place by now. If some of your troops are killed before David is even found, the morale of your army will plummet instantly. Instead, you should gather countless soldiers from the entire country, from the far north to the far south, and you, Absalom, should personally lead them in a massive attack.” (3) Hushai’s proposal flattered Absalom’s pride. His advice was well-received by Absalom and by all the people. It is truly remarkable that Ahithophel’s plan was rejected while Hushai’s was adopted. However, as believers, we can see the hand of the Lord behind it all. God’s plan was for Solomon, not Absalom, to be David’s successor. In order to fulfill that plan, God caused Absalom’s discernment to become dull, leading to his own ruin. Again, behind every human decision, there is the hand of God. God can open or close human hearts according to His will. Blessed is the person who prays and acts in alignment with God’s will.
Today's prayer
Heavenly Father, You are great and mighty. Please help me make all decisions with the understanding that You are in control of everything. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.