How can we apply the principle of seeking counsel in our daily decisions? Setting the Scene Esther 1:14 describes “the seven nobles of Persia and Media who had access to the king and sat first in the kingdom—Karshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, and Memucan.” When King Ahasuerus (Xerxes) faced a difficult domestic and political situation, he did not decide in isolation; he summoned his inner circle of trusted counselors. Even though the king’s motives and final outcome were imperfect, the narrative affirms a timeless principle: weighty choices call for deliberate consultation. Why Scripture Calls Us to Seek Counsel • Proverbs 11:14 — “Where there is no guidance, a people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” • Proverbs 15:22 — “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Proverbs 24:6 — “For by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in an abundance of counselors there is victory.” • Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 — Companionship provides “a good reward for their labor… if either falls, the one will lift up his fellow.” • James 1:5 — “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach.” God consistently pairs prayerful dependence on Him with humble willingness to hear godly voices around us. What Kind of Counsel to Pursue • Grounded in God’s Word (Psalm 119:24). • Proven by godly character (Proverbs 13:20). • Marked by honesty, not flattery (Proverbs 27:6). • Spirit-led and prayer-soaked (Colossians 1:9). • Free from corrupting influence (1 Corinthians 15:33). Practical Steps for Everyday Decision-Making 1. Pray first. Invite the Lord to direct your heart (Psalm 25:4–5). 2. Define the decision clearly. Vagueness breeds confusion. 3. List potential counselors: • Spiritual leaders (Hebrews 13:7). • Mature friends who know Scripture. • Those experienced in the specific area (finances, parenting, career). 4. Weigh counsel against the Bible. God’s Word is the final authority (2 Timothy 3:16). 5. Look for unity and confirmation (2 Corinthians 13:1). 6. Decide in faith, not fear (Romans 14:23). 7. Act with accountability—share the outcome and invite follow-up (Hebrews 10:24–25). Everyday Areas to Apply the Principle • Choosing a school or major. • Considering a job change. • Entering a dating relationship or engagement. • Making a large purchase or financial commitment. • Deciding how to serve in church or community. • Navigating parenting challenges. • Responding to conflict at work or home. Guardrails to Keep Counsel Healthy • Test everything; hold fast to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • Maintain personal responsibility—counsel aids, it does not replace, obedience to God. • Avoid echo chambers; invite perspectives that sharpen (Proverbs 27:17). • Beware of quick fixes or advice that contradicts Scripture, no matter how popular. • Remember Rehoboam’s downfall (1 Kings 12:8): rejecting wise elders for reckless peers had national consequences. Encouragement for the Journey Seeking counsel is not a sign of weakness; it is an act of wisdom and humility. Just as a pagan king instinctively knew he needed advisers, believers—indwelt by the Spirit and guided by the infallible Word—have every reason to surround themselves with godly voices. When we prayerfully gather insight from Scripture-saturated counselors, we position ourselves to discern God’s best and walk in the safety He lovingly provides. |
    |