Chaplin's Corner

The Wisdom of Choosing the Right Advisors: A Lesson for Louisiana Veterans

A reflection on leadership, decision-making, and the importance of honest counsel

The Story That Changed a Kingdom

In the pages of 1 Kings 12, we find a powerful story about leadership and the consequences of poor decision-making. King Solomon had died, and his son Rehoboam was poised to inherit one of history's most prosperous kingdoms. The people of Israel came to him with a simple request: lighten the harsh labor and heavy taxes that had burdened them under his father's reign.

Rehoboam faced a critical decision. He first sought counsel from the elders who had served his father—experienced advisors who understood both leadership and the needs of the people. Their advice was straightforward: "If you serve these people today and give them a favorable answer, they will always be your servants" (1 Kings 12:7).

But Rehoboam rejected this wisdom.

The Voice of Inexperience

Instead, Rehoboam turned to his young friends—men who had grown up alongside him but lacked the seasoned perspective of true leadership. These companions told him exactly what his ego wanted to hear: make things even harder on the people, show them who's in charge, assert your power.

"My little finger is thicker than my father's waist," they encouraged him to say. "My father laid on you a heavy yoke; I will make it even heavier" (1 Kings 12:10-11).

The result? The kingdom split in two, dividing Israel and Judah forever. One bad decision, influenced by the wrong voices, changed the course of history.

Lessons for Today's Veterans

As veterans, we understand leadership, sacrifice, and the weight of difficult decisions. Whether you're transitioning to civilian life, leading in your community, managing a family, or serving in veteran organizations here in Louisiana, the principle remains the same: the voices you choose to listen to will shape your choices, and your choices will determine your future.

Why We Need Truth-Tellers

In military service, we learned the value of honest communication up and down the chain of command. Lives depended on accurate information and truthful assessment of situations.

That same principle applies to civilian leadership:

• Experience matters: Just as Rehoboam's elders had decades of wisdom, seek counsel from those who have walked similar paths successfully

• Ego is dangerous: The young advisors fed Rehoboam's pride, leading to disaster. Surround yourself with people who care more about your success than your feelings

• Yes-men are hazardous: If everyone around you always agrees, you're not getting the full picture

Finding the Right Voices

For Louisiana veterans facing important decisions:

Seek out mentors who have successfully navigated similar challenges, whether in business, family life, or community leadership.

Value diverse perspectives. The elders and the young men represented different viewpoints, but only one group had the wisdom that comes from experience and genuine concern for others.

Listen to those who have nothing to gain from telling you what you want to hear. True friends and advisors will risk your displeasure to keep you from making harmful decisions.

A Personal Challenge

Take a moment to consider: Who are the voices influencing your major decisions? Are they people with proven wisdom and genuine concern for your wellbeing? Or are they simply echoing what they think you want to hear?

As veterans, we've served our country with honor. We understand duty, sacrifice, and the importance of good judgment. Let's apply that same wisdom to choosing our advisors and making our decisions.

Don't let pride or ego lead you down the path that Rehoboam took. The kingdom he could have preserved was lost forever because he chose the wrong voices at the wrong time.

Moving Forward

The next time you face a significant decision—whether it involves career, family, finances, or service to fellow veterans—remember King Rehoboam's costly mistake. Seek out the experienced voices, the truth-tellers, the mentors who have your best interests at heart.

Wrong voices lead to wrong choices. But the right voices can lead to a legacy of wisdom, strength, and lasting impact.

The DAV Department of Louisiana is committed to supporting veterans in all aspects of life, including personal growth and leadership development. If you're a veteran in Louisiana seeking community, support, or opportunities to serve, we invite you to connect with us and fellow veterans who understand the journey.