In what ways can we ensure our advisors are aligned with biblical truth? Setting the Scene—2 Chronicles 18:6 “Jehoshaphat asked, ‘Is there not still a prophet of the LORD here of whom we can inquire?’” Jehoshaphat stands in a court filled with four hundred prophets eager to bless King Ahab’s battle plan. Something feels off. Instead of yielding to majority opinion, he insists on hearing from a voice he knows will speak for God. His instinct models the first safeguard for choosing counselors who honor biblical truth. Core Safeguards for Choosing God-Honoring Advisors • Seek those who revere God above people. – Like Micaiah, authentic counselors fear displeasing the Lord more than disappointing kings (2 Chronicles 18:13). • Examine their alignment with Scripture. – Acts 17:11: the Bereans “examined the Scriptures daily” to verify teaching. If advice contradicts clear biblical commands, discard it. • Look for evidence of spiritual fruit. – Matthew 7:16: “You will recognize them by their fruit.” Humility, integrity, and love are non-negotiable markers. • Require willingness to stand alone. – Proverbs 29:25 warns against the snare of people-pleasing. Trusted advisors must speak truth even when outnumbered. • Verify consistency over time. – 1 Timothy 3:10 describes testing before appointment. Observe patterns, not isolated moments. • Confirm through multiple godly voices. – Proverbs 11:14: “Victory is won through many counselors.” Diverse, biblically grounded input protects from personal bias. Practical Steps to Discern Reliable Counsel 1. Start with prayerful dependence on the Holy Spirit (John 16:13). 2. Compare every recommendation with plain Scriptural teaching. 3. Ask: Does this counsel elevate Christ or human ambition? (Colossians 1:18). 4. Observe lifestyle: Are they above reproach in home, work, and church? (Titus 1:7-8). 5. Check motivations: Do they benefit if you follow their advice? Philippians 2:4 points us toward selfless interest in others. 6. Invite accountability: godly advisors welcome correction (Proverbs 9:8-9). 7. Watch for peace that aligns with righteousness, not mere comfort (James 3:17). Warnings From Jehoshaphat’s Day • Majority opinion can be spiritually bankrupt (2 Chronicles 18:5). • Flattery often masks destructive intent (v. 12). • Mixed alliances blur moral clarity; Jehoshaphat’s partnership with Ahab nearly cost him his life (2 Chronicles 18:28-34). Positive Models of God-Aligned Counsel • Jethro guiding Moses—Exodus 18:17-23: practical wisdom that honored God and blessed the people. • Nathan confronting David—2 Samuel 12:1-13: courageous truth-telling that led to repentance. • Paul mentoring Timothy—2 Tim 1:13-14: doctrinal fidelity and personal encouragement. Cultivating an Environment for Biblical Counsel • Saturate your mind with Scripture daily (Psalm 1:2). • Plant yourself in a church that preaches the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27). • Foster transparent relationships where truth is spoken in love (Ephesians 4:15). • Guard against echo chambers by welcoming faithful wounds from friends (Proverbs 27:6). • Keep short accounts with God so sin does not cloud judgment (1 John 1:9). Living It Out Jehoshaphat’s insistence on hearing from a genuine prophet spared Judah from blindly embracing Ahab’s doomed campaign. Following his example, believers today ensure advisors are aligned with biblical truth by rigorously testing their reverence for God, their conformity to Scripture, and the fruit of their lives. In every era, the Lord still provides Micaiahs—voices that may be fewer in number but rich in faithfulness, ready to steer God’s people toward wisdom, safety, and enduring blessing. |
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