1 Kings 12:8 (KJV)
But he forsook the counsel of the old men, which they had given him, and consulted with the young men that were grown up with him, and which stood before him:
From our anchored Scripture, king Rehoboam abandoned the counsel the older men gave him and took counsel with the young men, which cost his reign as a king in Israel. Most of the time, when we seek advice, it is because we are in a situation where we are unsure what to do. It is crucial to consider the source of advice, as misguided guidance can have detrimental effects on our future and lead to significant losses. The detrimental impact of wrong advice is immeasurable, with numerous potential success stories cut short. It is essential to know that if we must be successful, we must associate with the right people who can directly or indirectly advise and assist in fulfilling our destinies. Irrespective of our background or lifestyle, the advice we keep and the kind of information we consume determine the predominant thoughts that rule our hearts. These go a long way to establishing who we are and the type of future that awaits us. Proverbs 1:30-31 says, “They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof. Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way and be filled with their own devices.” We are to seek advice from reliable sources, for they will guide us on the right path and ensure our future is secure.
The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of being discerning about the company we keep. Negative influences can misdirect us, leading to regrettable decisions based on poor advice. Many heed counsel from unreliable sources without considering what would be right in the eyes of the Lord. Such misguided advice invariably leads to more harm than good. 2 Chronicles18:10-11 says, “And Zedekiah the son of Chenaanah had made him horns of iron, and said, Thus saith the LORD, With these thou shalt push Syria until they be consumed. And all the prophets prophesied so, saying, Go up to Ramothgilead, and prosper: for the LORD shall deliver it into the hand of the king.” King Ahab of Israel and King Jehoshaphat of Judah contemplated battling against Ramothgilead. Ahab’s advisors, including Zedekiah, were unanimously in favor of the campaign, assuring him of victory. However, Micaiah, renowned for his unwavering commitment to truth, diverged from the others, warning of catastrophic defeat. Nonetheless, Ahab chose to heed the advice of the majority, ultimately leading to his downfall. We will, of necessity, seek advice concerning executing our daily duties. To make the most out of the advice we receive, weigh its potential outcomes, evaluate its alignment with our values, and reflect on it before putting it into action. Following this approach ensures that any negative consequences are dealt with promptly.
Beloved, advice is prevalent, but where you get it is essential. Good counsel is a good thing, even if it hurts to hear it, whether you are the receiver or the giver of that counsel. Good advice equals the best outcome. On the other hand, the bad influence in your life equals the wrong result. If you ask Amnon (2 Samuel 13), he will tell you that his bad advice from his friend Jonadab caused his death. Never hang around anyone who will give you wrong advice or doesn’t carry your fire, drive, or passion. Whether it be family or friends, only be around people interested in your beliefs. To hang around them will quench your fire. Friendship isn’t for FUN but for the future, so choose your friends wisely. Don’t manage people. Love everybody, but relate carefully. Don’t give your ear and heart to everybody; not everyone adds value to your life. Don’t get your advice from wood sources (Hosea 4:12). Go to God. Before seeking advice, pray and ask God for wisdom in choosing the correct counsel. It’s the only thing that can permanently solve the problems you’ve been facing. Listen for the Spirit of God to advise you. Pay particular attention to what He says through the written Word. Remember, God’s advice is never wrong! Embrace the role of prayer and seeking wisdom from God, for it will always guide you in the right direction.
O Lord, I receive the grace to reject every wrong advice in Jesus’ Name.