In what ways can you seek "wise guidance" from spiritual leaders in your community? Focus Verse “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 Why Wise Guidance Matters • God has designed the church so that “in the multitude of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14). • Spiritual leaders are charged to “watch over your souls as those who must give an account” (Hebrews 13:17). • Submitting to godly counsel brings protection, clarity, and growth (Proverbs 15:22). Preparing Your Heart to Receive Counsel • Cultivate humility—“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). • Pray for receptivity before approaching leaders (Psalm 25:4-5). • Resolve to obey Scripture above personal preference (Psalm 119:105). Practical Ways to Seek Guidance • Attend teaching and discipleship gatherings consistently; regular presence invites organic counsel. • Schedule intentional meetings with pastors, elders, or seasoned believers to discuss decisions, struggles, and spiritual goals. • Invite ongoing mentorship; ask a leader you respect to walk with you over time (2 Timothy 2:2). • Submit major life choices—career moves, relationships, stewardship questions—for biblical evaluation (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Observe their lifestyle: learn by watching how they handle family, trials, and ministry responsibilities (Philippians 3:17). • Request prayer covering; allow leaders to intercede with and for you (Colossians 1:9-10). • Receive corporate guidance through congregational teaching, not just private conversation (Acts 20:20). • Seek a plurality of voices when possible; balanced counsel guards against bias (Acts 15:6). • Keep communication open—return for follow-up, share outcomes, and express gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). Keeping Counsel Biblically Balanced • Test every recommendation against Scripture (Acts 17:11). • Remember leaders are fallible; ultimate authority remains the Word of God (Isaiah 40:8). • Beware of selective listening—embrace both encouragement and correction (Proverbs 27:6). • Maintain personal responsibility; guidance informs decisions but does not remove accountability (Galatians 6:5). Living Out What You Hear • Act promptly on biblically sound counsel; delayed obedience weakens conviction (James 1:22). • Share testimonies of how godly advice has borne fruit, strengthening the faith of others (Psalm 40:9-10). • Continue growing so that, in time, you can offer wise guidance to the next generation (Titus 2:3-5). |
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