Text: "And he forsook the counsel of the old men, which they had given him, and consulted with the young men that were grown up with him, and which stood before him." – 1 kings 12:8.
Comment: When Rehoboam became King of Israel at the death of Solomon his father, the 12 tribes of Israel assembled to appeal to him to reduce the heavy burden (taxes, levies, labour) that his father Solomon had placed on them, and promised to be loyal and subject to him throughout his reign. The elders of Israel advised him likewise. But he forsook this wise counsel and listened to his age mates who advised him to be harsh to the people. "And spake to them after the counsel of the young men, saying, My father made your yoke heavy, and I will add to your yoke: my father also chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions." (1 Kings 12:6-14) This unsavoury reply of King Rehoboam did not go down well with most of the Israelites, hence 10 tribes of Israel deserted him and made Jeroboam their King, while Rehoboam was left with only two tribes (Judah and Benjamin) to govern. – 1 Kings 12:16,19-21.
Godly elders among God's people are a spiritual asset and blessing. "The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness" said King Solomon. (Proverbs 16:31) Job the prophet declared, "With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days is understanding. With him is wisdom and strength, he hath counsel and understanding". – Job 12:12,13.