Have you ever received advice that changed your life for the better? Or maybe you've followed bad advice that led you down a difficult road? Who we surround ourselves with matters more than we sometimes realize. The Bible reminds us repeatedly that wise counsel is a gift, while ungodly influences can lead us astray.
"Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety." – Proverbs 11:14 (KJV)
We were never meant to walk this journey of faith alone. God places people in our lives to sharpen us, challenge us, and encourage us to become more like Christ.
The Power of Godly Counsel
"Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend." – Proverbs 27:17 (KJV)
Think about the process of sharpening iron—it requires friction, heat, and pressure. A true friend and wise counselor will challenge you in love, push you toward righteousness, and help refine your character.
Do your closest friends encourage you in your walk with God?
When you face challenges, do they point you to Scripture or just tell you what you want to hear?
Godly friends don’t just affirm us; they hold us accountable. They remind us of God's truth even when it’s hard to hear.
Avoiding Foolish Advice
Not all advice is good advice. The world is full of opinions, but only God's Word is absolute truth.
"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful." – Psalm 1:1 (KJV)
It’s easy to listen to voices that align with what we want to hear rather than what we need to hear. But ungodly counsel will always lead to compromise. This verse reminds us to be mindful of:
1. Who we listen to – Are they rooted in God’s Word?
2. Where we stand – Do we linger in places that lead us away from righteousness?
3. Where we sit – Are we becoming comfortable in a lifestyle that doesn’t honor God?
Seeking Wisdom from God
The best counsel ultimately comes from God Himself.
"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." – James 1:5 (KJV)
No matter how wise a friend or mentor is, human wisdom is limited. But God offers wisdom freely to those who ask. Before seeking advice from others, take your concerns to Him in prayer. He will guide your steps and confirm His direction through His Word and wise counsel.
Reflection Questions
1. Who in your life has provided wise, godly counsel? How have they impacted your faith?
2. Are there any voices you’ve been listening to that might be leading you away from God's truth?
3. Have you been intentional in seeking God’s wisdom before making decisions?
A Prayer for Wisdom
Heavenly Father, thank You for placing wise counselors in my life. Help me to discern between godly and ungodly counsel. Give me the humility to receive correction and the boldness to stand firm in Your truth. Surround me with people who will sharpen my faith and draw me closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
🩵 Choose your counsel wisely. Surround yourself with people who will challenge, encourage, and sharpen you in the Lord. A wise friend is a blessing—be that friend to someone else today.
Do you have a testimony of how godly counsel changed your life? Share it in the comments below—I’d love to hear your story!
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