What Are Old People Good For?

Many young persons have a tendency to look to their peers for advice on some serious decisions. While there are indeed some very wise youths, this online devotional today calls on teenagers and young adults to seek counsel from the older generation as they can be a source of wisdom and experience.  2 Chronicles 10:8 But Rehoboam rejected the advice the elders gave him and consulted the young men who had grown up with him and were serving him....  Age and wisdom do not always equate to one another, but they often do. Rehoboam was the son of Solomon. It appears that Solomon had become heavy-handed in his employment practices by placing an overbearing burden on the workers. This was causing a problem with the northern tribes. It was the equivalent to a threat of a labour strike. Jeroboam was like the head of the labour union. In fact, he had fled from Solomon because of the abuse he perceived was happening. When Rehoboam was selected as the new king, he too was facing opposition to his practices.  2 Chronicles 10: 4-5 "Your father put a heavy yoke on us, but now lighten the harsh labour and the heavy yoke he put on us, and we will serve you." Rehoboam answered, "Come back to me in three days." So the people went away.... So, Rehoboam asked for advice from the older men who had been a part of Solomon's reign and then he asked for advice from his younger contemporaries. The elders advised Rehoboam to not be too concerned. They told him that if he did, they would be loyal workers the rest of their days.  He chose not to take this advice. The younger advisors told him to tighten the reigns more. This turned out to be bad advice. As a result, the northern tribes rebelled, and the kingdom was permanently divided. Today there is a tendency to discount input from older people. However, God has placed wisdom in older people that the young can learn a great deal from. Do not despise input from those who may be considerably older than you. God has placed a level of wisdom in them that can help you avoid major mistakes. Just for the asking: Who are the people I'm taking advice from on a regular basis? Does the advice take me closer to Jesus?