How does Judges 18:8 illustrate the importance of seeking godly counsel before decisions? Setting the Scene - The tribe of Dan had not yet secured its allotted territory (Judges 18:1). - Five men were sent to scout new land; on their journey they paused at Micah’s house and spoke with a Levite who claimed to be a priest (Judges 18:3–6). - After spying out Laish, they returned home. Judges 18:8 records that moment: “When they returned to their brothers at Zorah and Eshtaol, their brothers asked them, ‘What did you find?’”. Observations from Judges 18:8 - The scouts did not act alone; they reported back. - Their brothers expected a report before making a move. - The decision about moving an entire tribe rested on gathered information and shared counsel. Lessons on Seeking Godly Counsel • Shared Accountability – By returning to the larger group, the scouts kept themselves accountable. – Isolating ourselves often leads to rash choices; community brings balance (cf. Ecclesiastes 4:9–10). • Multiple Perspectives – Five men saw the land; their collective report would be richer than one man’s opinion. – “In an abundance of counselors there is victory” (Proverbs 11:14). • Dependence on God’s Word and People – Earlier, the spies sought a priest’s blessing (Judges 18:5–6). Though that priest proved compromised, the instinct to seek divine direction was right. – God frequently guides through both Scripture and godly voices around us. Practical Takeaways - Before major decisions, invite trusted believers to speak into your plans. - Weigh counsel against clear biblical teaching; if it contradicts Scripture, discard it. - Resist acting on incomplete information; patience allows space for wiser input. Supporting Scriptures - Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” - James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.” - Psalm 1:1: The blessed man avoids ungodly advice and delights in the law of the Lord. Closing Thoughts Judges 18:8 offers a snapshot of collective discernment: information gathered, counsel sought, and decisions made together. In the same way, our choices become safer and wiser when filtered through God’s Word and the counsel of faithful believers. |
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