Wise decisions are not made in a vacuum. We need help with discernment in all areas of our lives, even down to the tiny everyday ones. Why do we think we have to do this on our own? Yet, there is the opposite of asking every single person you come across. Where should we turn first?The opposite is of lack of counsel is wisdom. The Bible mentions it 219 times with even 2 books dedicated to wise counsel. The wisest king, other that Jesus was actually David's son, Solomon. I read the passage in 1 Kings 3 of what happened with Solomon during breakfast this morning. In verse 5 it says: the Lord appeared to Solomon during the night in a dream and God said, "Ask for whatever you want me to give you."
I asked the kids what they thought it might have been. Cavett first said money. Kendrick then said food. But, Solomon asked for wisdom. Moreover, because he didn't ask for the moon, God gave him wealth and honor and a long life too! What an example for us today!
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. James 1:5
While Jesus was on earth he spoke of what would happen when he wasn't with us anymore. He guaranteed that he would give us an Advocate to help us.
And I will ask the Father and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever--the Spirit of Truth. John 14:16-17
In Acts, Stephen stood up to unbelievers and opposition, speaking with great wisdom that the Holy Spirit gave him. (Acts 6:10)
In 1 Corinthians 2:6-16, Paul speaks about how if you believe and have the Holy Spirit, we understand what God has given us, spiritual realities and we will understand the words of the Bible. We have the mind of Christ. We have better discernment because we have faith and because we have faith, God gives us his Holy Spirit.
Is it hard to be still and listen to what that tiny voice has to say? Yes. Should we still strive for it? Definitely! How? Through prayer and quiet time and through the Bible. God will speak to you and give you wisdom. Sometimes it is through a scripture you just happen upon. Sometimes it is what I call a God-incidence, sometimes he literally gives you a sign. For example, in deciding which practice in the Dallas area Stephen should buy, the last building we came to had a cornerstone with Isaiah 28:16 written. It was a literal sign from God. (Not to mention he was in the middle of teaching a Sunday School lesson on how to "hear" God today.)
Look! I am placing a foundation stone in Jerusalem, a firm and tested stone. It is a precious cornerstone that is safe to build on. Whoever believes need never be shaken. Isaiah 28:16
Obviously, we bought that practice and thank God daily asking for wisdom for Dad in business decisions and patient care.
Can we find wise counsel from God through others? Absolutely.
Parents: Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching. Proverbs 1:8
Elders: Is wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding? Job 12:12
Friends: The queen of Sheba came to Solomon and talked with him about all that she had on her mind. Solomon answered all her questions; nothing was too hard for the king to explain to her. When the queen of Sheba saw all the wisdom of Solomon....she was overwhelmed. 1 Kings 10:2-5
You don't have to go it alone. God has provided much wisdom in many forms for you. You just have to be open to the avenues that he has provided.
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