What role does seeking counsel play in implementing God's will in our lives? Setting the Scene in Deuteronomy 1:23 “ ‘The plan seemed good to me, so I selected twelve of you, one man from each tribe.’ ” (Deuteronomy 1:23) Israel is on the threshold of the Promised Land. The people ask Moses to send scouts, and Moses, after listening, agrees. Their request becomes a turning point that teaches timeless lessons about counsel. What Moses Teaches Us About Counsel • He listens first. The initiative comes from the people (v. 22). • He evaluates: “The plan seemed good to me.” Moses measures the suggestion against God’s earlier promises and the practical needs of the moment. • He acts: “I selected twelve.” Counsel moves from discussion to decision. • He remains accountable. Later, when the spies’ report discourages Israel, Moses stands before God on their behalf. Counsel never replaces obedience; it informs it. Why Counsel Matters for Walking in God’s Will • Protection from blind spots—“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14). • Confirmation—Shared wisdom can affirm that a plan aligns with Scripture and God’s character (Proverbs 15:22). • Humility—Seeking advice acknowledges our dependence on God and His people (Romans 12:5). • Community discernment—The early church met together to resolve doctrinal questions (Acts 15:6). God often reveals His will through collective insight. Qualities of God-Honoring Counsel 1. Rooted in Scripture (Psalm 119:24). 2. Marked by godly character (Psalm 1:1; James 3:17). 3. Seasoned with experience but free from self-interest (Proverbs 20:18). 4. Confirmed by the peace of the Holy Spirit (Colossians 3:15). Balancing Human Counsel with Divine Direction • Ask God first—“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God” (James 1:5). • Compare every suggestion with clear biblical commands. The Word is the final authority (Isaiah 8:20). • Remember that counsel supports, not supplants, personal obedience (Galatians 1:16–17). Practical Steps for Us Today • Pray before, during, and after seeking advice. • Gather a small circle of mature believers who know both Scripture and you. • Listen without defensiveness; weigh advice without haste. • Act in faith once counsel harmonizes with God’s Word and the Spirit’s prompting. • Review outcomes with your counselors, cultivating a continual posture of learning. Key Verses to Keep in Mind • Proverbs 19:20 —“Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days.” • Proverbs 24:6 —“For by wise guidance you wage your war, and in an abundance of counselors there is victory.” • Philippians 1:9–10 —“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and every kind of discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent.” Seeking counsel, when anchored in God’s Word and filtered through humble prayer, becomes a vital instrument for discovering and fulfilling His will—just as it was for Moses and Israel on the edge of the Promised Land. |
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