King Rehoboam talked it over with the elders who had advised his father when he was alive: “What’s your counsel? How do you suggest that I answer the people?”

They said, “If you will be a servant to this people, be considerate of their needs and respond with compassion, work things out with them, they’ll end up doing anything for you.”

8-9 But he rejected the counsel of the elders and asked the young men he’d grown up with who were now currying his favor, “What do you think? What should I say to these people who are saying, ‘Give us a break from your father’s harsh ways—lighten up on us’?”

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

Message Slimline Bible, Charcoal Diamond Leather-look
Message Slimline Bible, Charcoal Diamond Leather-look
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $9.48
Save: $30.51 (76%)
3.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message The Book of Proverbs
The Message The Book of Proverbs
Retail: $4.99
Our Price: $4.98
Save: $0.01 (0%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message, Large Print Premium Leather, Black
The Message, Large Print Premium Leather, Black
Retail: $149.99
Our Price: $132.54
Save: $17.45 (12%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message Student Devotional Bible: Psalms
The Message Student Devotional Bible: Psalms
Retail: $9.99
Our Price: $8.49
Save: $1.50 (15%)
The Message Gospel of John - eBook
The Message Gospel of John - eBook
Retail: $4.99
Our Price: $3.99
Save: $1.00 (20%)