How can we ensure our advice aligns with biblical wisdom like Proverbs 31:1? Proverbs 31:1—A Model for Giving Counsel “The words of King Lemuel—the burden that his mother taught him.” (Proverbs 31:1) • Advice worthy of Scripture begins with a message that is: – Received as a “burden” or oracle from God, not mere opinion. – Transmitted faithfully, just as Lemuel’s mother passed it on. – Intended to bless, protect, and guide those who hear. Anchor Every Word in God’s Word • Let Scripture shape the substance of what you say (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Quote or paraphrase passages that directly address the issue at hand. • Refuse to contradict clear biblical teaching, even if culture pressures otherwise (Acts 5:29). • Check cross-references: if multiple texts point the same direction, you’re on solid ground. Submit Your Motives Before You Speak • Ask the Spirit to search your heart (Psalm 139:23-24). • Guard against the temptations of pride, people-pleasing, or personal gain (Philippians 2:3-4). • Remember that “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). Listen—Then Answer with Wisdom • “A fool does not delight in understanding, but only in revealing his opinions.” (Proverbs 18:2) • Hear the full story (Proverbs 18:13). • Clarify what the person truly needs before offering guidance. Seek Counsel from the Wise • “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22) • Run your advice past mature believers, pastors, or seasoned mentors. • Compare their insights with your own to refine and safeguard your counsel. Test Advice by Its Fruit • Will following this counsel produce “love, joy, peace…”? (Galatians 5:22-23) • Does it promote holiness and obedience to Christ? (1 Peter 1:15-16) • If the probable outcome looks unlike Jesus, rethink the advice. Keep Christ at the Center • “All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden in Him.” (Colossians 2:3) • Point the listener to dependence on Christ, not on you. • Encourage faith that rests on God’s promises (2 Corinthians 1:20). Putting It All Together 1. Saturate yourself in Scripture. 2. Check your motives. 3. Listen carefully. 4. Confirm with godly mentors. 5. Evaluate expected fruit. 6. Direct others to Christ. When these steps mark your counsel, you echo the pattern of Proverbs 31:1—words birthed in divine wisdom, delivered in love, and aimed at producing lives that honor the Lord. |
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