Building Bridges, Not Walls: The Power of Wise Counsel
Michael Joseph Gowon
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, today under the warm light of scripture,
we will be seeking guidance and wisdom for navigating the complexities of life.
Many of us come burdened by decisions, big and small, and the weight of
charting our course can feel overwhelming. Fear not, for the Book of Proverbs
offers a beacon of light, a timeless collection of wisdom passed down through
generations. Today, we delve into two powerful verses, Proverbs 15:22 and
Proverbs 20:18, that illuminate the importance of seeking wise counsel.
Proverbs 15:22 declares, "Without counsel, plans fail, but with
many advisors, they succeed." This verse paints a stark picture – the
folly of venturing out alone, our plans doomed to crumble in the face of
unforeseen challenges. Imagine a lone builder attempting to construct a sturdy
house. Without the expertise of an architect, the risk of collapse or
instability is high. Similarly, in our lives, we embark on various endeavors –
building careers, nurturing relationships, and raising families. Each of these journeys
demands a solid foundation and a well-thought-out plan.
However, the human mind is limited. Our blind spots can lead us astray, and our biases can cloud our judgment. This is where wise counsel comes in. By
seeking the perspectives of others, we gain access to a broader range of
knowledge and experience. A trusted friend might offer a crucial reminder, a
mentor might identify a potential flaw, a professional advisor could provide
invaluable expertise. These diverse voices act as supporting pillars,
strengthening the framework of our plans.
Proverbs 20:18 further emphasizes this point, stating, "Plans
are established by counsel; by wise guidance wage war." The imagery
here is striking – the act of planning is likened to waging war. This reminds us
that life is not a spectator sport. We are constantly engaged in battles –
conquering challenges, overcoming obstacles, and pursuing our goals. Just as a
skilled general wouldn't embark on a campaign without a meticulous battle plan,
informed by the counsel of advisors, so too should we approach our endeavors.
But who qualifies as a "wise counselor"? The Bible
doesn't advocate for blind acceptance of every opinion. Proverbs 11:14 warns, "Where
no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is
safety." This verse emphasizes the importance of quality over
quantity. Seeking advice from someone with a proven track record of success,
someone known for their integrity and sound judgment, is far more valuable than
gathering a crowd of yes-men.
So, where do we find these wise counselors? Look around you, brothers
and sisters. Our church community itself is a treasure trove of potential
advisors. Seasoned members who have weathered life's storms can offer
invaluable insights. Mentorship programs can connect you with experienced
individuals who can guide you on your specific path.
However, seeking counsel doesn't stop at the church doors. Consider
professionals in your field, individuals who have excelled in areas you aspire
to. Reach out to mentors in your workplace or community organizations.
Remember, wise counsel isn't a one-time event. As our lives and goals
evolve, our need for guidance continues. Develop a network of trusted advisors
who can offer support and perspective at different stages of your journey.
But seeking counsel goes beyond mere strategy
Proverbs are not merely about achieving worldly success. They are
ultimately about aligning our lives with God's will. Therefore, the most
important counsel we seek comes from the ultimate source of wisdom – God
himself.
Prayer is the bridge that connects us to God's divine wisdom. Through
scripture, we gain access to God's timeless principles. By studying the lives
of faithful men and women in the Bible, we learn from their successes and
failures. The Holy Spirit, ever-present within us, guides our steps and nudges
us towards the right path.
Building a life on the foundation of wise counsel is not about
eliminating risk or failure
Life is a tapestry woven with threads of triumph and tribulation. Even
the most meticulously planned endeavors can encounter unforeseen challenges.
However, when we seek counsel, both human and divine, we are better equipped to
navigate the storms. We can learn from setbacks, adjust our plans, and emerge
stronger.
Brothers and Sisters, let us not embark on the journey of life alone.
Let us tear down the walls of isolation and build bridges of counsel. Seek the
wisdom of trusted advisors, mentors, and most importantly, God himself. By
embracing the power of wise counsel, we can build a life that is both
successful and God-fearing.
Remember, a house built on a solid foundation can withstand even the
fiercest storms
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