In what ways can we seek godly counsel in our own decision-making? Setting the Scene “Then the young men who had grown up with him replied, ‘Tell them, ‘My little finger is thicker than my father’s waist.’ ” (1 Kings 12:10) Rehoboam stands at a crossroads: Will he heed the seasoned elders or the reckless youth? His choice of counselors steers the entire nation. We face similar crossroads—maybe not for a kingdom, but certainly for our homes, careers, and relationships. Lessons from Rehoboam's Folly • Weight of words – Counsel carries consequence; bad advice can fracture families or churches. • Source matters – Rehoboam’s peers lacked reverence and experience. • Test of humility – Pride gravitates to voices that tell us what we want to hear. Ways to Seek Godly Counsel Today 1. Saturate every decision with Scripture • “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) • Let clear commands settle non-negotiables before you ever seek another voice. 2. Gather a circle of proven, godly mentors • “Where there is no guidance, a people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14) • Look for believers whose lives display faithfulness over time—marriages intact, reputations unsullied, walk with Christ vibrant. 3. Weigh counsel by character, not charisma • “He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” (Proverbs 13:20) • Enthusiasm is no substitute for holiness. Choose advisors committed to truth, not trend. 4. Invite leaders who shepherd your soul • “Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” (Hebrews 13:7) • Pastors, elders, small-group leaders—those charged to watch over you—should have a voice in weighty decisions. 5. Embrace a posture of teachability • “Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days.” (Proverbs 19:20) • Ask open-ended questions; resist defending your pre-decided plan; be ready to pivot. 6. Confirm guidance through prayer and peace • “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5) • As advice aligns with Scripture, the Spirit grants confirming peace (Colossians 3:15). 7. Evaluate fruit before finalizing • “You will recognize them by their fruits.” (Matthew 7:16a) • Does the counsel promote love, joy, purity, and Christ-exalting outcomes? If bitterness, pride, or division follow, reconsider. Putting It Into Practice • Keep a decision journal—record Scriptures studied, counsel received, steps taken. • Schedule regular check-ins with a mentor before crises arise. • Rehearse the cost of ignoring godly wisdom; let Rehoboam’s divided kingdom stand as warning. The Bottom Line Choose counselors who fear God, submit to His Word, and demonstrate a track record of humble obedience. When you do, you trade the uncertainty of human impulse for the steady guidance of heaven’s wisdom. |
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