Introductory Thoughts
Men who think they need a simplified version of the Bible to assist in understanding misunderstand God's grace found throughout scripture. For instance, the Lord graciously provides associated words to help understand less familiar words. Even if we did not know what the word counsel meant, the Bible provides hints like the one found in Judges 20:7. Judges connects the word counsel with the word advice. Psalms tells us that counsel is gained when people consult together (Psalm 83:3). A counseller is one who can give an answer when asked a question (Isaiah 41:28). Additionally, Proverbs 20:5 points to counsel as a well of deep water that the wise seek to draw out of a man. Anytime we go to someone to seek his advice or input in a matter, we are seeking his counsel. It is important to note that counsel can be wise and righteous, or it can be ungodly. For this reason, the word of God must be the spiritual gauge.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): You receive money for your birthday and ask dad and mom what you can do with the money. That is asking for advice or counsel. You should listen very carefully when they guide you on how to spend the money including saving some and giving to the Lord.
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(For everyone): How often do you seek counsel from others? To whom do you go for counsel? Are they simply your peers or people who love the Lord and His word?
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What do you do when someone gives you godly counsel? Do you listen and follow through with the counsel, or do you listen and generally refuse the godly advice?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to give you some good counsellers.
- Ask God to help you obey wise counsels.
Song
THE MORE I KNOW OF THEE
