“Listen to counsel and receive instruction, that you may be wise in your latter days. There are many plans in a man’s heart, nevertheless the LORD’S counsel – – that will stand” (Proverbs 19:20, 21)
“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine (teaching), but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers…” (II Timothy 4:3)
I have been in the ministry for almost half a century. (Wow, where did the time fly)? An important part of that ministry has been to give counsel to those who were willing to accept it. However, in the last few decades I have seen a trend that has caused me to be reluctant to give advice. Often, when I would give advice, it would be rejected. The counselee would choose another source of “help” from someone who would agree with his or her preconceived assessment. The old adage “advice is cheap” has taken on new meaning.
So, most people don’t really want healthy and sound wisdom. My dad used to say to me, “If you’ll listen to me, it will save you many headaches and heartaches!” He was right, and I chose to listen to him. I wish he were still at my side today!
There are so many in our day who are more than happy to give bad advice: some churches, co-workers, friends, lawyers, neighbors, preachers, relatives, teachers, etc. etc. Frank Sinatra’s wrong advice was to do things “My Way!” That’s the story of self-determination (first sung by him in 1969).
If you really want help and wise advice, you will find it in an unfailing and caring God! My recommendation is:
1. Read your Bible for God’s wisdom.
2. Be willing to follow HIS answers (obey His Word)! 3. Seek out God in prayer and petition. He won’t turn down the sincere seeker and follower!
“This also comes from the LORD of hosts, Who is wonderful in counsel and excellent in guidance” (Isaiah 28:29)!
Teacher - Feature 