How does this verse compare to Proverbs 11:14 on seeking wise counsel? Setting the Scene: Proverbs 11:14 “For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors there is deliverance.” • Focuses on collective well-being—“a nation” or “a people.” • Stresses the danger of going it alone; corporate ruin is the consequence. • Promises “deliverance” (safety, rescue) when counsel is abundant. Looking at Proverbs 15:22 “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Zooms in on personal or group “plans,” not the entire nation. • Highlights practical outcomes—plans either “fail” or “succeed.” • Uses “advisers” interchangeably with “counselors,” reinforcing the same principle. Common Ground: What Both Verses Teach • Wise counsel is essential, not optional. • A single viewpoint is insufficient; multiple voices provide balance. • The consequences are stark—either downfall (11:14) / failure (15:22) or deliverance (11:14) / success (15:22). • Implicit call to humility: seeking advice means acknowledging limits. Complementary Emphases • Scope – 11:14: broad—national or communal stability. – 15:22: specific—individual or team projects. • Outcome Language – 11:14: “deliverance” suggests rescue from threats. – 15:22: “success” emphasizes positive achievement. • Together they show counsel’s value from planning stage (15:22) all the way to large-scale crises (11:14). Practical Takeaways • Before setting plans, gather godly advice—family, pastors, mature friends (15:22). • In times of communal decision—church, business, civic matters—ensure a council of biblically grounded voices (11:14). • Evaluate advisers: Do they fear the Lord? (Proverbs 1:7). Do their words align with Scripture? • Remember that multiple counselors do not replace seeking the Lord; they confirm His wisdom (James 1:5; Proverbs 3:5-6). Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 24:6 – “Only with sound guidance should you wage war, and victory lies in a multitude of counselors.” • Exodus 18:17-23 – Moses heeds Jethro’s practical counsel, preventing burnout. • Acts 15:6-21 – Early church resolves doctrinal conflict through collective deliberation and Scripture. • Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – “Two are better than one… for if either falls, his companion can lift him up.” Both proverbs, taken together, affirm the literal, trustworthy promise that God blesses those who humbly seek and heed wise, biblically grounded counsel—whether planning the next step or safeguarding an entire community. |
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