How can we discern godly advice from worldly advice in our daily lives? The Setting: Absalom’s Question 2 Samuel 16:20 – “Then Absalom said to Ahithophel, ‘Give your advice. What should we do?’” Absalom’s simple request highlights an everyday reality: we all seek counsel. What followed in the narrative shows the catastrophic outcome of advice that, while politically shrewd, opposed God’s declared will (cf. 2 Samuel 17:1-4, 14). This moment invites us to watch the difference between counsel that merely “works” and counsel that aligns with God. The Danger of Listening to the Wrong Voice • Absalom trusted Ahithophel’s reputation more than God’s revelation (2 Samuel 15:31). • Rehoboam repeated the error, choosing youthful peer pressure over seasoned wisdom (1 Kings 12:6-14). • Both stories underscore Proverbs 14:12: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death”. Marks of Worldly Advice • Elevates ego, power, or comfort (Genesis 3:5; 1 John 2:16). • Disregards clear biblical commands (Isaiah 8:20). • Lacks the fruit of righteousness—produces envy, disorder, or hidden agendas (James 3:14-16). • Relies on majority opinion or popularity (Exodus 23:2; Matthew 7:13-14). • Seeks immediate results without considering eternal consequences (Luke 12:16-21). Marks of Godly Advice • Consistent with Scripture: “The entirety of Your word is truth” (Psalm 119:160). • Christ-centered, aiming for holiness and love (Ephesians 4:15). • Characterized by “purity, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere” (James 3:17). • Confirmed by the Spirit’s inner witness (Romans 8:16) and the counsel of mature believers (Proverbs 11:14). • Bears good, lasting fruit—peace, joy, righteousness (Galatians 5:22-23). Practical Steps to Discern 1. Search the Word first. If counsel contradicts Scripture, reject it immediately (Acts 17:11). 2. Pray for wisdom; God promises to give generously (James 1:5). 3. Evaluate motives—both yours and the adviser’s (Proverbs 16:2). 4. Look at outcomes. Will this advice promote godliness or merely personal gain? (1 Timothy 6:6-10). 5. Seek confirmation from trusted, spiritually mature believers (Proverbs 27:9). 6. Wait when uncertain. Rushed decisions often bypass God’s timing (Psalm 27:14). Living It Out Today • Before acting on any counsel—financial, relational, career, or spiritual—place it under the light of God’s Word. • Keep close fellowship with believers who fear the Lord; “He who walks with the wise will become wise” (Proverbs 13:20). • Regularly cultivate sensitivity to the Shepherd’s voice; “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me” (John 10:27). • Remember: the seemingly “best” strategy is never worth the cost if it drifts from obedience. Like Absalom, worldly advice may promise quick advantage, but only godly counsel secures lasting blessing. |
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