What role does seeking wise counsel play in understanding God's will today? The Scene in 2 Kings 22:12 “Then the king commanded Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Achbor son of Micaiah, Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah the servant of the king, saying”. Josiah has just heard the freshly rediscovered Book of the Law. His immediate response is to gather trusted spiritual leaders. He will send them to the prophetess Huldah for the Lord’s word (vv. 13–14). Josiah does not rely on private opinion; he seeks qualified, God-fearing counsel so he can act in line with God’s revealed will. Why Josiah Models Wise Counsel • Humility—He tears his robes (v. 11) and admits need. • Urgency—He acts “at once,” showing counsel is not a last resort. • Discernment—He chooses proven servants, not random voices. • Submission—Whatever God speaks through them, he obeys (v. 19). Scriptural Foundations for Seeking Counsel • Proverbs 11:14: “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” • Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously…” • Ephesians 4:11–14: Christ supplies shepherd-teachers so believers “are no longer infants…swayed by every wind of teaching.” These passages present counsel as God’s ordinary means to clarify His will and guard believers from error. How God Uses Counsel Today 1. Illuminating Scripture—Mature believers help us grasp context and application (Acts 8:30–31). 2. Confirming Direction—Independent impressions are weighed with corporate wisdom (Acts 13:2–3). 3. Correcting Error—Faithful friends “wound” in love to rescue us (Proverbs 27:6). 4. Equipping for Service—Mentors identify gifts and open doors (2 Timothy 1:6). 5. Protecting Unity—Shared counsel prevents division (Acts 15). Practical Steps to Seek Godly Counsel • Identify proven voices—elders, seasoned believers, biblically anchored mentors. • Bring the Word first—share passages shaping your decision so counsel starts with Scripture. • Listen actively—write down insights, Scriptures, cautions. • Compare counsel—if advice conflicts, weigh it against the clear teaching of the Bible. • Act in faith—once counsel aligns with Scripture, move forward confidently as Josiah did (2 Kings 23:1–3). Guardrails for Discernment • Scripture is final authority (Isaiah 8:20). Counsel that contradicts the Word is dismissed. • Character of the counselor matters (Matthew 7:16). Wisdom flows from a life that bears righteous fruit. • Prayer saturates the process (Colossians 1:9). Invite the Spirit to knit counsel and Scripture together. • Obedience follows clarity (Luke 11:28). God’s will is not merely to be understood but done. Encouragement to Walk in Obedience The same God who guided Josiah through faithful counselors delights to order our steps today. When we open His Word, humble ourselves, and invite trusted believers to speak, He makes His will unmistakably clear, fortifying us to obey with courage and joy. |
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