Guided by God's Wisdom: The Power of Counsel
Summary
Today, we celebrated the achievements of our graduates, honoring their hard work and dedication. But beyond academic success, we were reminded of the surpassing value of God’s Word and the wisdom it imparts. The psalmist in Psalm 119 declares that meditating on God’s precepts brings understanding greater than that of the ancients or even our teachers. This wisdom is not just information, but a living guide for every season of life, especially as we face challenges, discouragement, or uncertainty about the future. The world offers many voices and solutions, but only God’s Word provides true hope, purpose, and direction.
As we move forward, it’s vital to recognize the influence of those closest to us. We become like the people we surround ourselves with, and our companions shape our character and destiny. That’s why it’s essential to seek out relationships with those who share our faith and values, and to be intentional about who sits at our table and speaks into our lives. The counsel we receive—whether from friends, mentors, or spiritual leaders—can either guide us toward God’s best or lead us astray.
Scripture teaches that there is safety in a multitude of counselors. Wise counsel is not just about hearing what we want, but about receiving truth, correction, and guidance from those who have walked the path before us. Submitting to godly authority, especially in our homes and marriages, brings unity and success. Jesus Himself is called the “Wonderful Counselor,” and He provides the ultimate guidance for our lives. When we open our hearts to His direction, and to the voices He places in our lives, we find clarity, protection, and transformation.
Finally, each of us is called to be a counselor and a teacher in some capacity. Whether through formal Bible studies, conversations with family, or interactions at work, we are all influencing others. Let’s embrace the call to share God’s wisdom, to be voices of truth and encouragement, and to help others discover the path God has for them. As we do, we participate in the ongoing work of Christ, building up His church and shaping lives for eternity.
Key Takeaways
- The wisdom found in God’s Word surpasses all human knowledge and is the foundation for true understanding. Meditating on Scripture daily equips us to discern truth from falsehood and to navigate life’s complexities with confidence and hope. The world’s solutions are temporary, but God’s Word endures and sustains us through every trial. [07:46]
- The people we allow closest to us profoundly shape our character and future. If we desire to grow in faith and purpose, we must intentionally choose companions who encourage us in godliness and challenge us to pursue God’s best. Sometimes, this means courageously changing our circle to align with God’s calling. [01:05:03]
- True counsel is more than friendly advice; it is authoritative, experienced, and sometimes corrective. Submitting to godly counsel—especially from spiritual leaders and mature believers—protects us from self-deception and guides us toward lasting success. The humility to receive correction is a mark of spiritual maturity and a safeguard against failure. [01:16:09]
- Jesus is the ultimate Counselor, offering not just comfort but authoritative direction for our lives. His guidance comes through His Word, His Spirit, and the voices of those He places in our lives. When we heed His counsel, we are transformed, empowered, and equipped to fulfill our God-given purpose. [01:23:52]
- Every believer is called to be a counselor and teacher, sharing God’s wisdom with others. Whether in formal ministry or everyday relationships, our influence matters. By embracing this calling, we help others discover God’s path, and we participate in the ongoing transformation of lives and communities for Christ. [01:34:36]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[06:32] - Honoring Graduates and the Gift of God’s Word
[07:46] - The Superiority of God’s Wisdom
[08:36] - Meditating on Scripture for Life’s Challenges
[10:48] - Rejecting the World’s Narrative of Hopelessness
[12:34] - Discovering Purpose and Unique Calling
[13:52] - Embracing Joy and Expectation for the Future
[22:30] - Praying for Campers and the Next Generation
[01:05:03] - The Power of Companionship and Influence
[01:12:10] - The Necessity of Godly Counsel
[01:16:09] - The Role of Correction and Authority
[01:19:19] - Navigating Life with Spiritual Guidance
[01:21:02] - Jesus as the Bright and Morning Star
[01:23:52] - Christ, Our Wonderful Counselor
[01:28:37] - Meditating on God’s Word in Daily Life
[01:33:41] - The Call to Be Counselors and Teachers
[01:37:05] - Vision for the Family Life Center
[01:39:00] - Closing Blessing and Fellowship
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Discussion Guide
---
### Bible Reading
Psalm 119:97-104 (ESV)
> Oh how I love your law!
> It is my meditation all the day.
> Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies,
> for it is ever with me.
> I have more understanding than all my teachers,
> for your testimonies are my meditation.
> I understand more than the aged,
> for I keep your precepts.
> I hold back my feet from every evil way,
> in order to keep your word.
> I do not turn aside from your rules,
> for you have taught me.
> How sweet are your words to my taste,
> sweeter than honey to my mouth!
> Through your precepts I get understanding;
> therefore I hate every false way.
Proverbs 11:14 (ESV)
> Where there is no guidance, a people falls,
> but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.
Isaiah 9:6 (ESV)
> For to us a child is born, to us a son is given;
> and the government shall be upon his shoulder,
> and his name shall be called
> Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
> Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
---
### Observation Questions
1. According to Psalm 119:97-104, what are some of the benefits the psalmist says come from meditating on God’s Word?
2. In Proverbs 11:14, what is the result of having no counselors, and what is the result of having many? ([01:12:10])
3. The sermon mentioned that Jesus is called the “Wonderful Counselor.” What does this title suggest about the kind of guidance He offers? ([01:23:52])
4. The pastor said, “You are becoming like the five people that are the closest to you.” What point was he making about our relationships? ([01:05:03])
---
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does the psalmist claim to have more understanding than his teachers and even the ancients? What does this say about the source of true wisdom? ([07:46])
2. The sermon emphasized the importance of who we allow to speak into our lives. Why might it be necessary to “fire” some counselors or change our circle of friends? ([01:17:43])
3. What does it mean that “there is safety in a multitude of counselors”? How does this relate to making decisions in our lives, especially when facing uncertainty? ([01:12:10])
4. The pastor said, “If you are your own counselor, you will fall.” Why is it dangerous to only listen to ourselves, and how does godly counsel protect us? ([01:13:20])
---
### Application Questions
1. The psalmist talks about meditating on God’s Word all day. What is one practical way you could make Scripture a bigger part of your daily routine this week? ([08:36])
2. Think about the five people you spend the most time with. Are they helping you grow closer to God, or pulling you away? Is there anyone you need to spend less (or more) time with to pursue God’s best for your life? ([01:05:03])
3. When was the last time you received correction or advice that was hard to hear but ultimately helped you? How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience? ([01:16:09])
4. The pastor said, “If nobody can rebuke you when you’re doing wrong, you don’t have counselors.” Who in your life has permission to speak hard truths to you? How can you invite more godly counsel into your decisions? ([01:16:09])
5. Jesus is called the “Wonderful Counselor.” Is there an area of your life right now where you need His guidance? What would it look like to seek His counsel through prayer, Scripture, or trusted believers? ([01:23:52])
6. The sermon challenged everyone to be a counselor and teacher in some way. Who is someone in your life you could encourage or share God’s wisdom with this week? What’s one step you could take to do that? ([01:34:36])
7. The world offers many voices and solutions, but only God’s Word provides true hope and direction. Are there any “voices” (media, friends, culture) you need to tune out so you can better hear God’s voice? What’s one change you could make this week? ([10:48])
---
Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Ask God to help you love His Word, choose wise companions, receive correction with humility, and be a voice of encouragement and truth to others. Invite Jesus, the Wonderful Counselor, to guide your steps this week.
Devotional
Day 1: The Transforming Power of Meditating on God’s Word
When you make God’s Word your daily meditation, you gain wisdom and understanding that surpasses even the most learned of this world. The psalmist declares that by keeping God’s precepts and refraining from evil, he has more insight than his teachers and even the ancients. The wisdom found in Scripture is not just information, but a living guide that shapes your decisions, brings clarity in confusion, and fills your life with sweetness and purpose. As you focus your attention on God’s Word, you will find answers for discouragement, hope for the future, and a foundation that cannot be shaken. [07:46]
Psalm 119:97-104 (ESV)
Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day. Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies, for it is ever with me. I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the aged, for I keep your precepts. I hold back my feet from every evil way, in order to keep your word. I do not turn aside from your rules, for you have taught me. How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Through your precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way.
Reflection: What is one specific time today you can set aside to meditate on God’s Word, letting it shape your thoughts and decisions?
Day 2: The Safety and Blessing of Godly Counsel
There is safety in seeking counsel from those who are wise, experienced, and rooted in God’s truth. When you surround yourself with godly counselors—people who will speak truth even when it’s hard to hear—you protect yourself from pitfalls and poor decisions. Counsel is not just about hearing opinions, but about submitting to voices of authority who care for your future and are willing to correct you in love. Evaluate who sits at your table and who has the right to speak into your life, because your circle of influence will shape your destiny. [01:12:10]
Proverbs 11:14 (ESV)
Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.
Reflection: Who are the top three people you turn to for advice, and do they point you toward God’s truth and your best future?
Day 3: Jesus, Our Wonderful Counselor
Jesus is not just another voice among many—He is the Wonderful Counselor, the ultimate source of wisdom, guidance, and correction. He knows your situation, understands your heart, and desires your success. When you listen to His counsel and obey His direction, your life is transformed, your path is made clear, and you experience the fullness of His peace and purpose. Don’t settle for being your own counselor or relying solely on worldly advice; instead, let Jesus have the final say in your decisions and direction. [01:23:52]
Isaiah 9:6 (ESV)
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to invite Jesus to be your Counselor and submit to His guidance today?
Day 4: The Influence of Your Companions
You are becoming like the people you spend the most time with, so choose your companions wisely. The voices and influences closest to you will shape your character, your decisions, and your future. If your friends and advisors are leading you away from God’s ways, it’s time to make a change. Surround yourself with people of faith who will encourage you, challenge you, and help you grow in Christ. Your circle matters more than you realize—let it be filled with those who point you to Jesus. [01:05:03]
1 Corinthians 15:33 (ESV)
Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.”
Reflection: Is there someone in your circle whose influence you need to limit or someone godly you need to draw closer to this week?
Day 5: Accepting the Call to Be a Counselor and Teacher
Every believer is called to be a counselor and teacher, sharing God’s Word and wisdom with others. Whether you realize it or not, your life and words are influencing those around you—your family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Embrace the call to be a source of godly counsel, offering encouragement, truth, and alternative paths rooted in Scripture. As you teach and guide others, you participate in the work of Jesus, helping to shape lives and destinies for His kingdom. [01:34:36]
Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV)
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
Reflection: Who is one person you can encourage or share God’s wisdom with this week, and how will you intentionally do it?
Quotes
Chatbot
-
I'm an AI bot trained specifically on the sermon from Jun 01, 2025. Do you have any questions about it?