The Power of Counsel and Why You Must Harness It

Daily Devotional: Friday, November 26, 2021

Where there is no counsel, the people fall, but in the multitude of counselors, there is safety.

Proverbs 11:14 (NKJV)

Young people often believe older people are uninformed and naïve; hence, there is no need to consult the elderly when making decisions. Eventually, some youngsters end up committing the same mistakes their elders warned them about.

Similarly, managers sometimes fail to achieve organizational targets because they ignore the advice of their superiors and juniors. Being a know-it-all or lone ranger may create a sense of independence but could lead to disaster.

In the political world, public participation is critical. Political leaders cannot sit and decide the type of projects and activities they will initiate for the community. Leaders must consult the public before spending taxpayers’ money.

The Jerusalem Council

After Christ’s ascension, there was no absolute leader among the disciples. The Jerusalem Council made critical decisions after extensive consultations, study of the scriptures, and prayer.

These examples demonstrate that no human being has a monopoly of ideas. None of us is wise in all aspects. One person bridges the gaps left by the other. When many heads come together to examine an issue, the resulting solution is likely to be the best.

Solomon weighed in on this issue when he wrote, “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors, there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14). You fail when you decide not to listen to the people God has placed in your life.

Why seek counseling?

It pays to consult, especially with people who are more experienced in the issue at hand. Young Christians would make fewer mistakes if they asked for counsel from more spiritually grounded people.

The answers to some of your prayers are in the counsel of servants of God. God does not always speak to you directly. He sometimes places the answers to your prayers in the minds and words of your parents, spouses, friends, teachers, pastors, or even total strangers.

Test Counsel Before Accepting It

However, we must prayerfully examine the counsel we receive because Satan may take advantage and give us ungodly advice. John cautions us, “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” (1 John 4:1).

Prayer

Almighty Father, lead me to righteous and sincere people in whom You have placed counsel that I need to live according to Your will.