"The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit." Proverbs 12:5
One of the more controversial issues today is the subject of counsel. It is estimated that nearly 85% of all counseling deals directly with the issues of marriage and relationships in general.
There are three specific areas related to counsel:
- Why do we need counsel
- Who should give us counsel
- How should counsel be given
Why do we need counsel?
When we are told by others that we may need to be counseled in a problem area - our first response may be disdain. Suggesting we needs someone else's help implies our being weak or incapable of thinking for ourselves.
We were not created to be "islands unto ourselves." We cannot shield ourselves from others and believe we have taken a wise course of action. Sadly, this is exactly what many people attempt.
At some point, every person has been confronted with the need of sound counsel.
Why does God say we need counsel?
There are a number reasons we should seek counsel...
- Receiving counsel is the "wise thing" to do.
A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels... Proverbs 1:5
Why? There is wisdom in looking for counsel versus trusting yourself in the midst of spiritual, emotional and physical adversity.
The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkens unto counsel is wise. Proverbs 12:5
Effective fathering requires a man rightly addressing an important issue by Godly counsel - and seeing a correct conclusion to the matter at hand!
Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war. Proverbs 20:18
- Receiving counsel is the "safe thing" to do.
Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety. Proverbs 11:14
A person lacking wisdom surrounds himself with people as foolish as he. He is promised one thing... he will fail and he will fall.
- Receiving counsel is the "good thing" to do.
Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counselors they are established. A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it! Proverbs 15:22-23
A sure fire way of seeing your plans go up in smoke is found in neglecting wise counsel. Conversely, a person who seeks counsel has those same plans established by others insight and warnings. When the matter has run its course, others will see the wise direction taken and give glory to God for His direction and your prudence.
Your family observing your prudence and wise judgment are critical components to "fathering your family!"
- Receiving counsel is the "pleasant thing" to do.
Bow down your ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart unto my knowledge. For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you; they shall withal be fitted in your lips. That your trust may be in the LORD, I have made known to you this day, even to you. Have not I written to you excellent things in counsels and knowledge, That I might make you know the certainty of the words of truth; that you might answer the words of truth to them that send unto you?
One of the greatest pleasures a father comes when his children approach to him in the midst of great turmoil and say, "Father, I don't know what to do... I really need your help." When a father can speak God's wisdom and God's instruction to his family; having no doubt the course of action chosen is the wisest plan - it becomes a pleasant thing to he and the ones he guides!
As we journey along the road of "Fathering Your Family", I will introduce a very controversial aspect to the subject of counsel...
Who should give us counsel?
- William Bateman
