How should Isaiah 40:14 influence our approach to seeking counsel and advice? Scripture Focus “With whom did He consult, and who enlightened Him? Who taught Him the paths of justice or imparted to Him knowledge or showed Him the way of understanding?” (Isaiah 40:14) Understanding the Verse - God requires no advisor; His knowledge, wisdom, and justice are inherent and complete. - The rhetorical questions expose the infinite gap between the Creator’s perfect counsel and every human source of insight. - Because God’s wisdom is self-contained, His word alone is the final, authoritative standard for truth and guidance. Implications for Us - Seek God first. If the Almighty needs no counselor, we must begin all decision-making with Him. - Measure every human opinion against Scripture; only what aligns with God’s revealed truth is worth keeping. - Approach counselors with humility but also discernment, recognizing that even the most seasoned advisor can err, while God cannot. Practical Steps in Seeking Counsel • Start in the Word – Daily reading anchors the heart in God’s unchanging wisdom (Psalm 119:105). • Pray for clarity – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without finding fault” (James 1:5). • Confirm with Scripture – Compare advice to clear biblical teaching; discard what conflicts (Acts 17:11). • Choose godly voices – “The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom” (Psalm 37:30). Surround yourself with believers who revere God’s Word. • Weigh motives and outcomes – “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). Multiple godly perspectives refine your understanding while filtering out bias. • Obey promptly – Once counsel aligns with Scripture, act in faith and trust God with results (Proverbs 3:5-6). Scriptural Cross-References - Proverbs 2:6 – “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” - Psalm 32:8 – “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you.” - Jeremiah 17:5 – “Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the LORD.” - Colossians 2:3 – “In Him are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Common Pitfalls to Avoid - Relying on feelings or trends rather than Scripture. - Seeking advice to affirm a predetermined decision. - Valuing expertise over godliness. - Delaying obedience until every detail feels risk-free. Encouragement for Today God, who never needed counsel, graciously offers His perfect wisdom to you through His Word and Spirit. Anchor yourself in what He says, test every other voice by that standard, and walk forward in confident obedience. |
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