How does Acts 27:12 teach us about seeking wise counsel in decisions? Backdrop: A Busy Harbor and a Big Choice • Paul’s ship has reached Fair Havens on Crete late in the season. • Verse snapshot: “Since the harbor was unsuitable to winter in, the majority decided to sail on to Phoenix.” (Acts 27:12) • The travel experts and the vote of “the majority” overrule Paul’s earlier warning (vv. 9–11). The Majority Vote: Not Always God’s Wisdom • The sailors’ plan looked practical—Phoenix offered a better port, more supplies, and comfort. • Yet the very next verses show their choice led into a fierce storm (vv. 13–20). • Lesson: popular opinion and technical expertise can miss God’s counsel when they ignore His messenger. Marks of Wise Counsel • Rooted in revealed truth, not merely in convenience. • Tested against Scripture’s clear principles. • Willing to listen to godly voices—even if they are in the minority. • Conscious of long-term consequences rather than short-term ease. What Happens When We Ignore God-Centered Advice • Unintended storms: the voyage turns perilous, costing cargo and peace of mind. • Loss of time: they end up drifting at sea for two weeks (v. 27). • Greater danger to others: every soul on board is put at risk (v. 20). • Spiritual dullness: the crew resorts to desperate measures instead of trusting God (vv. 18–19). Putting It into Practice • Seek voices that align with Scripture before making major moves—careers, finances, relationships. • Weigh motives: am I choosing ease (Phoenix) over obedience (Fair Havens)? • Don’t confuse a majority vote with divine endorsement; truth is never decided by a poll. • Allow time for prayer and reflection instead of rushing with the crowd. • Stay teachable; even seasoned experts can be wrong if they ignore God’s word. Anchor Verses for Wise Decision-Making • Proverbs 11:14 — “For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors there is deliverance.” • Proverbs 15:22 — “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • James 1:5 — “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all.” • Proverbs 3:5 — “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” In Acts 27:12 we see that majority rule, expert opinion, and convenience can still steer us into storms when they drown out God’s counsel. Choose your counselors wisely, measure every plan by Scripture, and anchor decisions in the Lord’s unchanging wisdom. |
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