What steps can we take to avoid being "void of counsel" in our lives? Setting the Warning in Context • Deuteronomy 32:28 says, “For they are a nation devoid of counsel, with no understanding among them.” • Moses is lamenting Israel’s drift from God’s wisdom; the same danger faces us when we ignore God-given guidance. Step 1 – Anchor Yourself in God’s Word • Scripture is God’s primary counsel: “All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching…” (2 Timothy 3:16). • Make daily reading non-negotiable. Even ten focused minutes anchor your thinking. • Memorize key promises so the Spirit can recall them when decisions press. Step 2 – Cultivate a Teachable Heart • Pride blinds; humility invites counsel. Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” • Ask God to expose any stubborn areas. Journaling honestly keeps you alert to repeating patterns. Step 3 – Seek Out Godly Mentors • “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14). • Identify believers whose lives display steady obedience. Invite their input before you act, not after problems erupt. • Receive correction gratefully; it is a gift, not a threat. Step 4 – Depend on the Spirit Through Prayer • James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God… and it will be given.” • Pray specifically for clarity, then wait quietly. The Spirit aligns your thoughts with Scripture and silences competing voices. Step 5 – Stay Planted in Biblical Community • Isolation breeds error. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us to meet together for mutual encouragement. • Small-group study and corporate worship expose you to balanced teaching and shared discernment. • Community also provides accountability—vital protection against self-deception. Step 6 – Test Every Voice Against Scripture • Feelings, culture, and even friends can mislead. Acts 17:11 praises the Bereans because they “examined the Scriptures daily” to confirm teaching. • If counsel contradicts clear biblical principles, reject it—no matter how persuasive the source. Step 7 – Obey Promptly • Counsel unused soon dulls the heart. Jesus said, “Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it” (Luke 11:28). • Act on the light you have; further guidance often follows obedience. Putting It All Together Staying clear of being “void of counsel” is not complicated, but it is intentional: saturate your mind with God’s Word, walk humbly, invite wise voices, pray, stay connected, test everything by Scripture, and obey quickly. In doing so, you position yourself to receive and follow the Lord’s unfailing guidance every day. |
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