Wise Counsel

Every single one of us, whether we want to admit it or not, is influenced by others. We make decisions, we set priorities, we weigh options, we move or we stand still based on how we've been influenced. So the big question is this--who has influence in your life?

Certainly, it is crucial that we start with a firm foundation that is rooted in Christ and strengthened through Scripture, prayer and the power of the Holy Spirit. Then, as we begin to unpack the big question, we can really evaluate who is influencing us. Ask yourself, who are the two or three people who have the most influence in your life? And where are they in their walk with Christ? Do they even know Jesus as their Lord and Savior?

Now expand that circle to ten to twelve people who also have some influence in your life. And ask the same questions of your inner two or three. Based on this evaluation, how much godly influence do you have in your life? Gut-level honesty is now required. Six times in the book of Proverbs (1:7, 2:6, 3:19, 9:10, 15:33 and 21:30) we are told that wisdom comes directly from God. How then is it possible to get wise counsel from people who don't know God nor are walking with him?

The good news is there is wise counsel to be found in the body of Christ. Fill the holes in you inner circle with men who are walking upright and are serious about their relationship with Christ. Encourage another brother in Christ to walk with you and strengthen his relationship with the Lord. This is discipleship in action. And be on guard against ungodly counsel that can pull you away from the source of wisdom.