How can we apply the principle of listening to wise counsel in our lives? Opening the Text “So now, my son, listen to my voice and do exactly what I tell you.” (Genesis 27:8) Lessons Wrapped in a Difficult Story • Rebekah’s words to Jacob show how powerful counsel can be—powerful for good or ill. • Scripture records this episode with unvarnished honesty, reminding us that even flawed people can highlight timeless principles. • The command to “listen” surfaces throughout the Bible, urging us to discern and obey counsel that aligns with God’s character. Why Listening to Wise Counsel Matters • Protection: “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14) • Growth: “He who walks with the wise will become wise.” (Proverbs 13:20) • Longevity of wisdom: “Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days.” (Proverbs 19:20) Marks of Truly Wise Counsel • Rooted in Scripture—never contradicts God’s revealed Word (Psalm 1:1–2). • Prompted by love, not selfish gain (1 Corinthians 13:5–6). • Confirmed by the fruit it produces—peace, righteousness, and integrity (James 3:17). • Willing to challenge and correct, not merely affirm (Proverbs 27:6). Practical Steps for Seeking and Heeding Wise Counsel 1. Ask God first. “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God… and it will be given.” (James 1:5) 2. Invite input from godly people—parents, pastors, mentors, seasoned believers. 3. Compare every suggestion with Scripture; if it clashes, discard it. 4. Look for unity among multiple counselors; one isolated voice may be off‐track. 5. Act promptly once counsel is confirmed—partial obedience is still disobedience. 6. Stay teachable; wise counsel often corrects our blind spots. Linking Back to Genesis 27 • Jacob obeyed his mother’s voice but ignored God’s moral standards, showing that counsel must always be filtered through divine truth. • Later, Jacob himself became a conduit of blessing when he spoke God‐given words over his sons (Genesis 49). Counsel anchored in God’s promises redeems past failures. Walking It Out Today • Cultivate a habit of pausing before major decisions to seek biblical, prayer‐soaked advice. • Keep a short list of trusted advisers you can call or meet quickly. • Review recent choices—where you welcomed counsel, note the benefits; where you resisted, note the consequences. • Thank the Lord for those He uses to guide you, and purpose to be that kind of voice for someone else. |
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