Guidance

April 17

Deuteronomy 31

Psalm 47

Proverbs 11:14-15

Luke 12:1-21

Guidance

“For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisors.” 

Proverbs 11:14 NIV

A common theme in the book of Proverbs is the importance of wise counsel.  Proverbs 12:15 tells us “The way of fools seem right to them, but the wise listen to advice.” (NIV) Proverbs 15:22 says “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisors they succeed.” (NIV) Verses 31-33 tell us “Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise.  Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.  Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord, and humility comes before honor.” (NIV) Proverbs 19:20-21 says “Listen to advice and accept discipline, and in the end, you will be counted among the wise.  Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” (NIV) Proverbs 28:26 says, “Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe.” (NIV) Solomon was the wisest man who ever lived and yet he knew the importance of listening to the counsel of others.  He knew what the prophet tells us in Jeremiah 17:9, “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure.  Who can understand it?” (NIV) We can convince ourselves of whatever we want to hear.  We rationalize, manipulate the truth, and justify what we want to do. It may be easier to see this principal at work in the lives of others.  We can all point to examples of people who would not listen to those around them and made really bad decisions.  They were warned numerous times, but they ignored the advice of others and now are suffering the consequences.  I am not saying that others are always right, and you should do whatever they say.   I am suggesting that you should seek the counsel of those who you respect and trust. You should talk to several people that you know care about you and want what is best for you; people who will pray with you and for you to help you discern God’s will about the decision you have to make.  Listening to their reasoning and their concerns will help you make an informed decision.  It is important to look at different perspectives and weigh them against the truth of God’s Word.