“…victory is won through many advisers.” – Proverbs 24:6 (NIV)
Have you ever felt qualified or experienced enough to make a really good decision, but afterward, you realised that it could have been better? Sometimes, we think our experiences or personal research provide sufficient information to make a sound decision, but many times, we fall short, discovering that our efforts or experiences were not enough; we could have been better.
Our omniscient (all-knowing) God, in His wisdom, understands mankind’s limitations and the complexity of matters. In fact, He did not intend for all knowledge, understanding, and wisdom to be reserved for one person. Hence, He introduced the concept of advisers. Proverbs 11:14 (NIV) tells us, “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.” Thus, advisers are very important. They lead to victory.
By no means, however, does the Bible encourage us to accept the advice of every adviser. A cautionary example is in the account of Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, in 1 Kings 12:1-19. When Rehoboam became king, though he had many advisers, he rejected the advice of the elders and accepted the counsel of his peers instead. This led to the division of the kingdom. We must let this example be a reminder that we have a duty to weigh every piece of advice and know that not every piece of advice leads to victory.
Further, we must understand that advice is not an end in itself. Receiving much advice does not in itself mean victory. Having many advisers allows us to see matters from different angles and perspectives. Through the individuality and experiences of each adviser, an important aspect can be highlighted for our consideration. After internalising each piece of advice, we will surely be in a better position to make a more informed decision, which will lead to our victory.
The advice from the greatest Adviser, The Holy Spirit, however, cannot be under-mentioned. Being God Himself, who is omniscient, He brings incomparable wisdom and insight into any matter. As we go about obtaining advice from earthly advisers, let us not forget to inquire of the Lord. Let us also be careful to weigh every advice in light of the Word of God, accepting those that are consistent with His Word and rejecting those that are not.
Dear brothers and sisters, rest assured that God’s Word can be trusted!
Prayer
My God and Father, please align me with many godly advisors and guide me to accept the best advice in every circumstance. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read: 1 Kings 12:8; Psalm 119:105
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 17:13-15; Matthew 20:20-34; Job 15; Job 16; Job 17; Job 18