Statistics show that a person makes approximately 33,000 to 35,000 conscious decisions each day. This includes what we will eat, wear, and say. Many of these decisions happen automatically as part of our daily routine without much thought or consideration. However, some of our decisions are heavier ones that carry much more weight in our lives. When it comes to those types of decisions, how do we make the right choice?
Obviously, if we claim to be a Christian, then these decisions should be brought to God in prayer for Him to lead and direct. Many times, our decisions can be made through communication with God alone. Sometimes, however, we need input from others in order to make the best decision in the situation. So, when the time comes, who do you listen to and surround yourself with?
There are many proverbs that describe the importance of wise advisors.
“Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisors.” Proverbs 11:14
“Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many advisors bring success.” Proverbs 15:22
“Plans succeed through good counsel; don’t go to war without wise advice.” Proverbs 20:18
“Don’t go to war without wise guidance; victory depends on having many advisers.” Proverbs 24:6
It seems wise to have advisors, but how do we know who to give our ears to for advice?
In 1 Kings 12, Rehoboam had just accepted the title of king after the passing of his father. Some of the leaders of southern tribes came to him and stated that his father was very harsh on them and they wanted to know if he could lighten the demands, and in return, they would be his loyal subjects. Rehoboam asked for three days to make his decision. During that time, Rehoboam sought the advice of others.
“The King Rehoboam discussed the matter with the older men who had counseled his father, Solomon. ‘What is your advice?’ he asked. ‘How should I answer these people?’ The older counselors replied, ‘If you are willing to be a servant to these people today and give them a favorable answer, they will always be your loyal subjects. But Rehoboam rejected the advice of the older men and instead asked the opinion of the young men who had grown up with him and were now his advisors. ‘What is your advice?’ he asked them. ‘How should I answer these people who want me to lighten the burdens imposed by my father?’ The young men replied, ‘This is what you should tell those complainers who want a lighter burden: My little finger is thicker than my father’s waist! Yes, my father laid heavy burdens on you, but I’m going to make them even heavier! My father beat you with whips, but I will beat you with scorpions.’” 1 Kings 12:6-11
Rehoboam followed the advice of his friends rather than listen to the counsel of those who had walked this path with his father. He asked for advice, but he didn’t really evaluate what he was told. He didn’t consider the experience and wisdom that was offered by those who had walked the road before and knew the best route to take in order to remain true to biblical principles and promote a positive solution. Due to Rehoboam’s decision, the nation of Israel became even more divided.
How do we make our choices when it comes to decisions? Do we start by bringing the issue to God and praying over the situation asking Him for wisdom, discernment, and clarity? Do we ask the advice of others? When we do ask for advice, are we only seeking out the counsel of “yes men” or those who are our friends, or are we seeking out true wisdom from those who have walked our paths before? If we get different responses for the advice, do we weigh out which ones should hold more weight in our choices?
God has given us wisdom to make decisions, however He has also given us the ability to glean advice from others who have walked down the paths we are taking or have made wise decisions in the past. Will we have enough humility to pray to our Father for answers and be willing to seek out help from others, even when they may go against what we are desiring? We make thousands of decisions each day. Will we set ourselves up for success or hardship?
This blog was written by Amy Carrico: Author of Making the Moments Matter Blog
Last Updated on July 1, 2024
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