Wise Counsel

From whom do you get your advice? Some people don’t consult anyone. They move by impulse and feelings. Others consult so called friends who will tell them what they want to hear. Still others have a more mystical approach seeking the vibes of tarot cards and fortune tellers. Christians on the other hand have a biblical approach to seeking advice. Their source is obvious – the WORD of God and prayer. Though prayer and scripture are vital to getting good advice and are no doubt the pillars of truth for all of Christendom, they are not enough within themselves to be the “end all” to sound advice.

The Proverbs use three Hebrew words for counsel: tachbulah, etsah, cowd

1. Proverbs 11:14 (KJV) Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety. Counsel ‑ tachbulah, properly steerage (as a management of ropes)
2. Proverbs 12:15 (KJV) The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise. Counsel ‑ etsah, advice; by implication plan; also prudence
3. Proverbs 15:22 (KJV) Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established. Counsel ‑ cowd, a session, i.e. company of persons (in close deliberation); by implication intimacy, consultation, a secret

In short, looking at these three words we can say that wise counsel will help you steer, plan and grow in intimacy with those who are counseling you. There is no greater source for sound advice than that of godly elderly people. They should have a heart for the next generation. Steering the youth in the right direction ought to come natural seeing they have passed through many difficulties. Lastly, the elderly should be able to give the tools of success through proper planning. Teaching them how to use money makes and keeps friends and most of all plans for their eternal life. Tomorrow we will discuss a passage of Scripture from the Old Testament (I Kings 12) “What happens when you refuse wise counsel?”

Word for Today
Steerage – The act or practice of steering.

Quote for Today
You know you are in trouble when your advice to yourself starts sounding good.
– raj