We all need to receive counsel for many of the decisions we make (Prov 25:28, LXX). Naturally, the believer will insist that this be good advice (Tit 3:8, TNT) that is consistent with biblical revelation and shows sensitivity to God’s Spirit. Since we all have many blind spots (Ps 19:12, CW), godly counsel can help expose our blind spots so we aren’t led into a bad decision.
Such godly counsel comes from spiritually mature individuals (Prov 24:6, Spurrell) who are great in God’s eyes (Prov 24:6, Rotherham). This can include any mature Christian (Rom 15:14). Normally, we would seek out such advice from family members or friends whose spiritual maturity we trust (Prov 12:26, Berkeley). However, there will be many times we need advice about something on which a family member is not knowledgeable. While counsel about a car repair issue might be of some benefit coming from an individual who knows nothing about fixing cars, we would normally seek advice from a trusted auto mechanic. The same is true for medical advice. The doctor isn’t always right and advice from a spiritually mature individual can be of some value. However, it would be foolish to not seriously consider the advice of the trusted person to whom God has given that specific knowledge. We also need to remember that bad advice is harmful (Prov 12:6, CEV) and can lead us into sin (2 Chron 22:33, GW).
Sound advice can be encouraging (Acts 20:2, Norlie), enable us to prosper (Prov 24:7, Knox), and gives us wisdom (Prov 13:10, HCSB). It helps us to do what is right (Acts 20:31, Barclay), gives us power (Prov 24:5-6, NCV), protects us (Prov 2:7, CEV), and gives us success in our plans (Prov 20:18, NCV). We need good advice.
Instead of being timid, learn to be appropriately bold.