In what ways can we seek godly advice to avoid sin like in 2 Samuel 13:4? Learning from 2 Samuel 13:4 “‘He asked Amnon, “Why are you, the king’s son, so miserable every morning? Will you not tell me?” Amnon replied, “I am in love with Tamar, my brother Absalom’s sister.”’” (2 Samuel 13:4) Amnon opened his heart to Jonadab—a “very shrewd” cousin—who then fed him a wicked plan. Because Amnon trusted ungodly counsel, lust blossomed into assault and set off a chain of family tragedy. The Danger of Ungodly Counsel • Ungodly advice distorts desires (James 1:14–15). • It downplays consequences (Proverbs 14:12). • It isolates us from accountability (Proverbs 18:1). • It often comes from people who appear clever or caring (2 Samuel 13:3). Marks of Godly Counsel • Rooted in Scripture, not clever schemes (Psalm 119:105; 2 Timothy 3:16–17). • Leads toward holiness, not self-indulgence (1 Peter 1:15–16). • Speaks truth even when uncomfortable (Proverbs 27:6). • Confirmed by the broader body of mature believers (Proverbs 11:14). • Produces peaceable, righteous fruit (James 3:17). Practical Ways to Seek Godly Advice 1. Open your Bible first • Let God’s Word frame the issue before any human voice (Psalm 1:1–2). 2. Pray for discernment • Ask the Spirit to spotlight motives and hidden dangers (Psalm 139:23–24). 3. Approach proven, mature believers • Elders, pastors, or seasoned disciples whose lives display consistent obedience (Hebrews 13:7). 4. Invite multiple perspectives • “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22). • Hearing from varied godly voices guards against one person’s blind spots. 5. Submit to accountability structures • Small groups, mentorships, and church discipline all provide loving oversight (Galatians 6:1–2). 6. Evaluate counsel by Scripture • Does it align with clear commands and biblical principles? • Reject anything that requires compromise or secrecy (Ephesians 5:11). 7. Act promptly but carefully • Delayed obedience invites temptation; rashness ignores wisdom (Proverbs 19:2). Scriptures to Keep Close • Psalm 32:8 — “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you.” • Proverbs 3:5–6 — Trust in the Lord, acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths. • 1 Corinthians 15:33 — “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” • Psalm 119:9 — “How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to Your word.” Living It Out Avoiding Amnon’s downfall begins with anchoring every decision in God’s revealed truth, surrounding ourselves with steadfast believers, and remaining teachable. Godly advice is never a shortcut; it is a safeguard, steering us away from sin and toward the joy of obedience. |
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