How does Job 17:10 challenge us to discern wise counsel from foolishness? Context of Job 17:10 “But come back and try again, all of you. I will not find a wise man among you.” (Job 17:10) • Job’s friends have insisted their theological formulas explain his suffering. • Job, certain of his innocence, invites them to speak again—yet he is convinced none will offer true wisdom. • The verse exposes a tension every believer faces: Who is truly wise, and who merely sounds wise? What Job Exposes About Foolish Counsel • Confidence without compassion—his friends lecture but never comfort (Job 16:2). • Rehearsed answers that ignore facts—accusing Job while overlooking his blameless life (Job 1:1). • A failure to seek God first—relying on tradition, not revelation (Isaiah 8:20). Scriptural Marks of Wise Counsel • Rooted in God’s word: “All Scripture is God-breathed…so that the man of God may be complete” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Humbly recognizes limits: “When pride comes, disgrace follows, but with humility comes wisdom” (Proverbs 11:2). • Produces righteous fruit: “A tree is recognized by its fruit” (Matthew 12:33). • Aligns with the character of Christ—full of grace and truth (John 1:14). Practical Steps to Discern Wise from Foolish 1. Test every word by Scripture (Acts 17:11). 2. Examine the counselor’s life for consistent godliness (Proverbs 13:20). 3. Listen for humility and openness to correction (James 3:17). 4. Seek confirmation through prayer and the Spirit’s peace (Philippians 4:6-7). 5. Compare counsel with the whole counsel of God, not isolated texts (Psalm 119:160). Encouragement for Today • God never leaves His people without wisdom: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God… and it will be given” (James 1:5). • Like Job, refuse to accept talk that contradicts God’s revealed truth, no matter how confidently it is presented. • Surround yourself with counselors who fear the Lord, for “in a multitude of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14). |
    |