Some folks are raised to not air their grievances about other family members. If something really bad is going on, they don’t tell anyone because they are embarrassed or it’s just not the thing to do. Depending on the situation that might be appropriate, or that might not be appropriate. In some situations, you may need to get help. For the less serious situations, most folks lean on a friend.
What do you?
It’s always a blessing to have a friend that you can go to for support and accountability. However, you need to pick that friend wisely. It doesn’t do any good to have a friend that listens if the counsel they give you is not godly.
Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
Psalms 1:1Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
Proverbs 11:14The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.
Proverbs 12:15
When the advice given to you is based on principles from the Bible, you will be able to make the best decisions. Having a sounding board will help prevent you from stumbling if you are willing to heed their advice. Many times I have been such a sounding board to a friend. It always saddens me though when a person plunges ahead contrary to what God has said in His Word. Do heed godly counsel.
What about when you have no counsel available?
About 5 years ago, I was following what God wanted me to do. However, somewhere along the way, there was a turn of events that brought me great dissatisfaction. I wanted to follow God, but I did not like where I thought it was leading. It was one of those times when you say stupid stuff to God like, “You brought me this far for this to happen?”
I was in tears, and I began to pray. I began to pour out my heart and my concerns. I had to choke my will down and swallow hard to surrender to His, but I did not see how it would work out. I was distressed and heartsick over the whole thing.
However, God was faithful. He gave me direction, and then He provided for what He had told me to do.
For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
Romans 8:15
Over the years, I have become a pro at crying Abba Father. Whether you have counsel available to you or not, you can always cry Abba Father. The best answers – the right answers – will always come from Him.
LIFE APPLICATION
Today’s challenge is to be wise in where you seek counsel. Don’t seek a “yes man” or a “yes woman.” Many a famous person has been known to surround himself or herself with people who will say what is wanted instead of what is needed. Instead, seek godly counsel. Remember also that we do have the privilege of being able to cry out Abba Father! Always seek counsel from Him!