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Proverbs 11:14 - Safety In The Multitude Of Counselors.

Proverbs 11:14 (NKJV) Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.

Proverbs 11:14 (NIV) For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisers make victory sure.

INTRODUCTION

A good leader needs and uses wise advisers. One person's perspective and understanding is severely limited; he or she may not have all the facts or may be blinded by bias, emotions, or wrong impressions. To be a wise leader at home, at church, or at work, seek the counsel of others and be open to their advice. Then, after considering all the facts, make your decision. [Life Application SB]

COMMENTARY PEARL

The Privy Council
   The reign of Elizabeth I from 1558 to 1603 is considered England's golden age, instrumental in shaping the tiny nation into a global power player. At its forefront was her Privy Council, powerful men, like first Secretary of State William Cecil and spymaster Francis Walsingham, who advised the monarch on everything from law to religion to war to the economy, both domestic and foreign. Historians laud the queen for strategically using these devoted servants to maximize protection for both crown and country.
   In a way, Queen Elizabeth was practicing today's Bible promise. The Bible promises certain outcomes for the methods we use in making decisions. Humbly heeding balanced counsel results in "safety"; pridefully determining one's own way results in a "fall." A One Poll survey found that a whopping 53 percent of Americans felt unable to accomplish goals because they didn't ask for help. Are we setting ourselves up for failure by wanting to "go it alone"?
   Safety isn't just found in the quantity of counsel but in its quality. The Bible cautions us against following in the footsteps of Rehoboam, Israel's new, inexperienced king who listened to his similarly young, inexperienced friends rather than the tried-and-true elders of wise King Solomon (1 Kings 12:1-15). Rehoboam's foolish decision resulted in the dividing of Israel into the northern and southern kingdoms (vv. 16-24).
   When we are seeking counsel, we should instead ask: Do these advisors fear God? Is their counsel in harmony with God's will? "To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, it is because there is no light in them" (Isaiah 8:20). There is promised safety in following counsel from those who speak in accordance with God's Word.
   Lord, thank You that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. Humble me to ask guidance of other godly people who follow in Your wisdom. [The Most Amazing Bible Promises by Amazing Facts]

ILLUSTRATION

Can You Help Me Fix This?
   "I trust in you, LORD; I say, 'You are my God.' My times are in your hands." Psalm 31:14-15
   "So what's the problem?" the tow truck driver asked when he picked me up on the side of the road. "I don't have a clue," I told him. "Cars aren't exactly my thing." Fortunately the repair shop knew exactly what was wrong - the water pump - and they knew how to fix it too.
   God has shown me that it's okay if I don't have all the answers. When I don't know what to do, he's teaching me to reach out to others who have the wisdom and understanding I need. This is one of those disciplines that can be difficult, especially when we are new in our recovery. Our pride tells us people will think we're weak and don't have it together. But once we get past that lie of the devil, we can see that reaching out for wisdom and counsel can help us avoid a world of additional messiness. Can you imagine me trying to fix my car on my own? I would create far more problems than I fixed.
   Yes, I plan to keep on learning all the lessons God has for me. I admit it - I'm weak at times, I often don't have it all together. I know I need the Lord and all the friends he has given me. Those godly men and women in our lives are true treasures.
   Thank you, Father, for those you have placed in my life to help me find answers when I need them. I know they are your gift to me. In Jesus' name, Amen. [Celebrate Recovery Daily Devotional by John & Johnny Baker]

LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT

https://abible.com/links/