How can we ensure our advice aligns with biblical principles, unlike Jonadab's? Jonadab’s Fatal Counsel “Then Jonadab told him, ‘Lie down on your bed and pretend you are ill. When your father comes to see you, say to him, “Please let my sister Tamar come and give me something to eat. Let her prepare the food in my sight so I may watch her and eat it from her hand.”’” What Went Wrong • Jonadab’s scheme ignored God’s moral law—encouraging deceit, lust, and incest (cf. Exodus 20:14; Leviticus 18:9). • His advice served Amnon’s selfish desires instead of Tamar’s welfare (Philippians 2:3-4). • No concern for truth or righteousness (Ephesians 4:25; Proverbs 12:22). • He offered no prayer, no appeal to God’s Word, and no check with godly counsel (Proverbs 11:14). Six Filters for Advice That Honors God 1. Obedience to Scripture – If the counsel violates a clear command, it is never from God. – Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” 2. Christlike Love – John 13:34; 1 Corinthians 13:4-5. – Advice should protect, value, and build up the other person, not exploit or harm. 3. Truth and Integrity – Ephesians 4:25; Proverbs 12:22. – No half-truths, manipulation, or secrecy. 4. Seeking the Other’s Good – Ask: Will this counsel genuinely benefit the person spiritually, emotionally, and physically? 5. God’s Timing and Wisdom – Waiting, praying, and listening for the Lord’s direction guards against rash opinions. 6. Confirmation through Godly Counselors – Proverbs 11:14; 15:22. – Trusted believers help catch blind spots and ensure our advice squares with Scripture. Practical Habits for Faithful Counselors • Daily Bible intake—read, study, and memorize to think biblically instinctively. • Cultivate a humble, listening posture before speaking (James 1:19). • Pray silently while you listen to someone’s problem, asking the Spirit for wisdom (John 14:26). • Check motives: Am I seeking God’s glory or my own influence? • Use Scripture naturally in conversation—“Have you considered what Proverbs 3 says about trust?” • Stay accountable; invite mature believers to evaluate your habitual counsel. • Model the fruit of the Spirit—gentleness, self-control, and love (Galatians 5:22-23). A Closing Reminder “If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God…” Align every word of advice with the Word of God, and your counsel will stand in stark contrast to Jonadab’s. |
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