How can we seek godly counsel when facing confusion, as seen in Daniel 5:10? Setting the Scene • Daniel 5:10: “Now the queen entered the banquet hall because of the outcry of the king and his nobles, and she said, ‘O king, live forever! Do not let your thoughts alarm you or your countenance be changed.’” • Babylon is in turmoil. A mysterious hand has written on the wall, Belshazzar is terrified, and pagan counselors are stumped. • Into this chaos walks the queen mother, calmly pointing the king to God’s proven servant, Daniel. Key Observation: A Model for Seeking Counsel 1. The queen hears the crisis and moves toward it. 2. She brings truth, not flattery, reminding Belshazzar that help exists. 3. She highlights Daniel’s godly character and Spirit-given wisdom (vv. 11-12). 4. Her initiative redirects the king from panic to revelation. Principles for Seeking Godly Counsel When We’re Confused • Look for Proven Faithfulness – Daniel had “an excellent spirit, knowledge, and insight” (v. 12). – Proverbs 20:6: “Many a man proclaims his own loyalty, but who can find a trustworthy man?” • Value Spiritual Discernment Over Mere Expertise – The Babylonians’ best minds failed; spiritual insight succeeded (1 Corinthians 2:14). • Act Quickly, Not Hesitantly – The queen “entered” as soon as she heard the outcry. Waiting prolongs confusion. • Seek Counsel That Submits to God’s Word – Daniel would interpret the writing only as God revealed it, never inventing answers (v. 17). • Choose Counselors With Courage to Confront – Daniel boldly rebuked Belshazzar’s pride (vv. 22-23). A godly counselor risks offense to tell the truth. • Confirm Advice With Scripture – James 1:5 promises God gives wisdom generously to those who ask. – Isaiah 8:20: “If they do not speak according to this word, there is no light in them.” Practical Steps for Today 1. Identify believers who consistently display the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). 2. When confusion arises, approach them honestly and promptly. 3. Bring the matter before God together; invite His Word to speak first. 4. Weigh counsel by Scriptural consistency (Acts 17:11). 5. Obey what aligns with God’s revealed truth, trusting He is “not a God of confusion but of peace” (1 Corinthians 14:33). Encouraging Outcome Belshazzar’s story ends in judgment because he ignored the warning. Yet the pattern remains: when confusion reigns, God still provides His people—like Daniel—who speak clarity. Following the queen’s example positions us to hear God’s voice through trustworthy, Scripture-anchored counsel and to walk in wisdom rather than fear. |
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