When Wisdom Speaks: Why Listening to Our Elders Matters

Insights from The Weekly REBOOT

By: Evan Owens

In a fast-paced world obsessed with youth, it’s easy to forget the value of those who have walked life’s path before us. Their wisdom, shaped by years of experience, often holds the key to avoiding pitfalls and finding true success. But what happens when we reject their counsel? Let’s take a lesson from the life of Rehoboam, a young king whose story reveals the consequences of ignoring sage advice.

The Tale of Rehoboam: A Warning for Us All

Rehoboam, the son of King Solomon, inherited a divided kingdom. His people approached him with a reasonable request: ease their burdens, and they would serve him loyally. Seeking guidance, Rehoboam consulted two groups—his father’s seasoned advisors and his childhood friends.

The elders urged him to lead with compassion, suggesting that serving his people would earn their devotion. But Rehoboam rejected their wisdom, turning instead to his peers, who encouraged him to rule harshly and flex his authority. The result? His people rebelled, the kingdom split, and his reign began in disaster (1 Kings 12:1-24).

Why Elders’ Wisdom Matters

Rehoboam’s mistake wasn’t just a poor leadership decision; it was a missed opportunity to honor and learn from those with experience. Here’s why we need to respect and value the counsel of our elders:

1. They’ve Walked the Road Before Us
   Job 12:12 reminds us, “With the aged is wisdom, and in length of days understanding.” Our elders have faced challenges, made mistakes, and learned valuable lessons. When we tap into their experiences, we gain insights that can save us from unnecessary heartache.
2. Humility Honors God
   Choosing to listen to elders requires humility. It’s an acknowledgment that we don’t have all the answers. As 1 Peter 5:5 says, “You who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another.” Rehoboam’s downfall began with pride. Don’t let the same attitude lead you astray.

The Cost of Ignoring Wisdom

When we surround ourselves only with peers or “yes-people” who echo our opinions, we risk making decisions based on insecurity, immaturity, or limited perspective. Think of Elvis Presley’s infamous “Memphis Mafia,” whose blind loyalty enabled his self-destruction. Rehoboam’s friends mirrored this dynamic—they weren’t focused on wise governance but on maintaining their proximity to power.

Proverbs 13:20 offers a powerful truth: “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”

What About Us?

In today’s culture, ageism is pervasive. We glorify youth and innovation while sidelining tradition and legacy. This trend has even seeped into our churches, where younger leaders often overshadow elders. But what if we’ve traded timeless wisdom for fleeting trends?

Let’s ask ourselves:

• Do we seek advice from those who’ve lived longer and know more?
• Do we truly listen when elders speak, or do we dismiss them as outdated?

Who’s in Your Inner Circle?

Rehoboam’s failure reminds us that surrounding ourselves with only like-minded peers can lead to disaster. So, who will you turn to for guidance? Will you include those with gray hair and decades of experience?

Proverbs 20:29 says it beautifully: “The glory of youths is their strength, but the beauty of the aged is their gray hair.” Let’s learn to celebrate and respect that beauty.

The next time you face a big decision, pause. Seek out the elders in your life. Listen—not just to the words you want to hear but to the wisdom you need. It could make all the difference.