Offering advice can be tricky, but the Bible encourages us to use wisdom and discernment when guiding others. Let’s explore how scripture teaches us to speak the truth in love, offering help and counsel in a way that reflects God’s wisdom and care.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Suing Your Neighbor
What Does The Bible Say About Giving Advice To Others
Proverbs 11:14
“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking advice and guidance from wise counselors. It highlights the value of multiple perspectives and the safety that comes from having trusted advisors to help navigate life’s challenges.
Advising others is a selfless act that can provide valuable insights and prevent people from making poor decisions. As Christians, we should be willing to seek advice from others and offer guidance to those in need, promoting wisdom and discernment in our interactions.
Proverbs 15:22
“Without counsel, plans fail, but with many advisers, they succeed.”
This verse reinforces the need for seeking counsel and advice when making plans. It reminds us that individual perspectives may be limited, but with the input of wise and experienced advisors, our plans can be more successful.
Sharing our thoughts and seeking guidance opens the door to gaining valuable insights and considering alternative perspectives. Through collaborative decision-making and seeking the counsel of others, we can increase our chances of success in our endeavors.
Proverbs 12:15
“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.”
This verse highlights the danger of arrogance and self-reliance. It contrasts the mindset of a fool, who believes their own way is always right, with that of a wise person, who understands the importance of listening to advice.
As Christians, we should cultivate humility and recognize that we don’t have all the answers. Being open to receiving advice and considering other perspectives allows us to grow in wisdom and avoid the pitfalls of pride and self-deception.
Proverbs 20:18
“Plans are established by counsel; by wise guidance, wage war.”
This verse emphasizes the role of counsel and guidance in making wise decisions and accomplishing our goals. It tells us that seeking advice from wise and experienced individuals can help us establish solid plans and navigate life’s challenges effectively.
When faced with important decisions or challenging situations, we should seek the guidance of others who can offer wisdom and insight. By doing so, we can make better-informed decisions and face life’s battles with greater clarity and confidence.
Proverbs 24:6
“For by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors, there is victory.”
This verse reinforces the importance of seeking wisdom and guidance from others. It reminds us that the input and advice of multiple counselors can lead to victory in the battles and challenges we face.
When we rely solely on our own understanding and perspectives, we limit our ability to overcome obstacles. However, by humbly seeking advice from others, we can tap into the collective wisdom and experience that can guide us to triumph and success.
Proverbs 1:5
“Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.”
This verse encourages us to be receptive to wisdom and guidance. It emphasizes the importance of continually learning and seeking understanding, as well as obtaining guidance from those who possess wisdom.
As Christians, we should cultivate a hunger for knowledge and understanding, always seeking to grow in wisdom. By doing so, we position ourselves to receive valuable guidance and make informed decisions that align with God’s principles.
Proverbs 27:9
“Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel.”
This verse illustrates the joy that comes from receiving sincere and honest advice from a trusted friend. It compares the favorability of good counsel to the delight of pleasant scents that uplift the heart.
Having friends who are willing to offer sound and caring advice can bring great comfort and joy into our lives. We should cherish and cultivate such friendships, valuing the guidance they provide and reciprocating with our own counsel when needed.
Proverbs 15:23
“To make an answer is a joy to a man, and a word in season, how good it is!”
This verse highlights the positive impact of timely and wise advice. It suggests that offering the right words at the right moment can bring joy and goodness to both the giver and the receiver.
As Christians, we should strive to become vessels of encouragement and wisdom to others. By offering timely advice, we can bring comfort, direction, and hope to those who are in need, fostering positive relationships in the process.
Proverbs 20:5
“The purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out.”
This verse speaks to the importance of understanding and discernment in helping others uncover and fulfill their purpose. It suggests that a person with insight can help others navigate the depths of their hearts and discover their true calling.
As Christians, we should develop the ability to listen attentively and discern the aspirations and desires of those around us. By doing so, we can offer guidance and support, helping them uncover their purpose and walk in alignment with God’s plan for their lives.
Proverbs 19:20
“Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.”
This verse encourages us to be receptive to advice and instruction as a means of gaining wisdom. It emphasizes the importance of humility and teachability in our journey towards personal growth and spiritual maturity.
By listening to the wisdom of others, we open ourselves to new insights and perspectives. Through a posture of humility, we can learn from those who have gone before us and avoid the pitfalls of pride and ignorance.
Proverbs 15:31
“The ear that listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise.”
This verse highlights the value of receiving constructive criticism and correction. It suggests that those who are willing to listen and learn from rebuke and correction will find themselves in the company of the wise.
As Christians, we should cultivate a receptive heart to feedback and correction, recognizing that they can be opportunities for growth and refinement. By accepting wise reproof, we position ourselves to learn, improve, and surround ourselves with individuals who can enrich our journey.
Proverbs 13:10
“By insolence comes nothing but strife, but with those who take advice is wisdom.”
This verse warns us against the dangers of arrogance and the conflicts that can arise from refusing to take advice. It suggests that true wisdom is found in those who are humble enough to seek and accept guidance.
As Christians, we should avoid a stubborn and prideful attitude that refuses advice. Instead, we should value humility and be open to receive wisdom from others, recognizing that true growth and understanding come through a spirit of teachability.
Proverbs 11:12
“Whoever belittles his neighbor lacks sense, but a man of understanding remains silent.”
This verse urges us to exercise restraint in offering unsolicited advice or criticism. It highlights the importance of sensitivity and wisdom in our interactions, reminding us to be mindful of our words and their potential impact.
As Christians, we should strive to be compassionate and respectful in our dealings with others. Rather than belittling or demeaning, we should listen attentively, seeking to understand and support, only offering advice when it is welcomed or requested.
Proverbs 24:3-6
“By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding, it is established, by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches. A wise man is full of strength, and a man of knowledge enhances his might; for by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory.”
These verses depict the significance of wisdom and understanding in building a strong foundation. They emphasize the value of knowledge and seeking counsel in order to navigate life’s challenges and achieve victory.
As Christians, we should prioritize the acquisition of wisdom and understanding, seeking guidance from those who possess knowledge and experience. By doing so, we can establish a solid spiritual foundation and effectively overcome the battles we face, ultimately succeeding according to God’s purpose.
Proverbs 16:20
“Whoever gives thought to the word will discover good, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord.”
This verse encourages us to meditate on God’s Word and trust in His guidance. It suggests that those who pay attention to His teachings will find goodness and experience blessings.
As Christians, we should prioritize studying and reflecting on the Bible, seeking divine wisdom and direction for our lives. By trusting in the Lord and aligning our actions with His Word, we position ourselves to discover His goodness and receive His abundant blessings.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
These verses emphasize the importance of trusting in God and seeking His guidance rather than relying solely on our own understanding. They encourage us to acknowledge Him in all aspects of our lives, believing that He will guide and direct our paths.
As Christians, we should cultivate a deep trust in the Lord, recognizing that His wisdom surpasses our own. By acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His guidance, we can navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence, knowing that He will lead us along the right path.
Proverbs 19:21
“Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.”
This verse reminds us that our plans may be numerous, but it is ultimately God’s purpose that will prevail. It encourages us to surrender our own agendas and seek divine guidance, recognizing that His plans are greater than our own.
As Christians, we should hold our plans with an open hand, willing to align them with God’s purposes. By seeking His guidance and surrendering our will to His, we can walk in confidence, knowing that His ultimate plan will unfold in His perfect timing.
Proverbs 16:9
“The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”
This verse highlights the tension between making our own plans and yielding to God’s guidance. It acknowledges our capacity for planning while emphasizing the Lord’s role in directing our steps.
As Christians, we should approach planning with a humble posture, acknowledging our reliance on God’s wisdom and understanding. By inviting Him to establish our steps, we can trust in His guidance, knowing that He will lead us in paths that align with His will.
Proverbs 15:22
“Without counsel, plans fail, but with many advisers, they succeed.”
This verse reinforces the value of seeking counsel and advice when making plans. It suggests that involving others in the decision-making process can increase the likelihood of successful outcomes.
As Christians, we should seek the wisdom and perspectives of trusted advisors as we navigate important decisions. By incorporating diverse viewpoints, we broaden our understanding and increase our chances of making well-informed choices that align with God’s will.
Proverbs 12:15
“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.”
This verse highlights the danger of pride and self-deception. It contrasts the mindset of a fool, who believes his own way is always right, with that of a wise person, who understands the importance of listening to advice.
As Christians, we should cultivate humility and recognize that our perspectives may be limited. Being open to receiving advice and considering other viewpoints allows us to grow in wisdom and avoid the pitfalls of arrogance and self-deception.
Proverbs 12:26
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.”
This verse emphasizes the impact of the company we keep on our decision-making and life’s direction. It encourages us to choose our friends wisely, recognizing that their influence can either lead us closer to God or pull us away.
As Christians, we should surround ourselves with individuals who provide godly counsel and encouragement. By seeking the company of fellow believers who are committed to living according to God’s principles, we position ourselves for growth and alignment with God’s purposes.
Proverbs 11:14
“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors, there is safety.”
This verse highlights the importance of seeking guidance from wise counselors. It suggests that having multiple perspectives and advisors provides safety and helps prevent individuals and communities from experiencing downfall.
As Christians, we should value the wisdom and guidance of others, recognizing that we are not meant to navigate life’s challenges alone. By seeking the counsel of trusted advisors, we can make more informed decisions and find security in the collective wisdom that surrounds us.
Proverbs 11:9
“With his mouth, the godless man would destroy his neighbor, but by knowledge, the righteous are delivered.”
This verse highlights the power of knowledge and discernment. It suggests that while the words of the godless can bring destruction, those who possess knowledge and understanding can bring deliverance and protection.
As Christians, we should prioritize acquiring wisdom and knowledge, which begins with studying and living out God’s Word. By doing so, we equip ourselves to speak life, offer sound advice, and bring deliverance to those around us.
Proverbs 1:7
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
This verse highlights the importance of the fear of the Lord as the foundation of true knowledge. It suggests that those who reject wisdom and instruction are foolish and lack the reverence for God necessary to grow in understanding.
As Christians, we should cultivate a deep reverence for the Lord and recognize His wisdom as the ultimate source of knowledge. By embracing His guidance and instruction, we position ourselves to grow in wisdom and discernment, leading to a life of purpose and fruitfulness.