What Does The Bible Say About Seeking Wise Counsel? (25 Bible Verses)

Seeking wise counsel is encouraged throughout the Bible. Scripture speaks to the importance of surrounding yourself with godly advisors and seeking guidance before making decisions. This principle reflects humility and a desire to follow God’s wisdom rather than relying solely on personal judgment.

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What Does The Bible Say About Seeking Wise Counsel

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 wise counsel when making decisions. Without guidance, we are prone to failure, but by seeking the advice of others, we can find safety and make wise choices.

Proverbs 15:22

“Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers, they succeed.”

This verse reinforces the need for seeking counsel and highlights the role it plays in the success of our plans. By seeking the input of others, our decisions can be strengthened and lead to favorable outcomes.

Proverbs 19:20

“Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.”

In this verse, we are encouraged to not only seek counsel but also to be receptive and open to it. By listening to advice and accepting instruction, we can acquire wisdom that will benefit us in the future.

Proverbs 24:6

“For by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory.”

Just as wise counsel is crucial in making decisions, it is also vital in times of conflict or battle. Through seeking the guidance of wise counselors, we can navigate through challenges and achieve victory.

Proverbs 12:15

“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.”

It is easy for us to become conceited and think we are always right. However, true wisdom lies in being humble, recognizing our limitations, and being willing to listen to the advice of others.

Proverbs 13:10

“By insolence comes nothing but strife, but with those who take advice is wisdom.”

This verse warns us against the consequences of pride and arrogance. When we reject advice and choose to go our own way, it often leads to conflict and strife. However, wisdom can be found in those who are humble enough to seek and accept advice.

Proverbs 20:18

“Plans are established by counsel; by wise guidance, wage war.”

We are reminded in this verse that involving others in our plans can lead to their success. By seeking wise guidance, we can ensure that our plans are well-thought-out and achieve the desired outcomes.

Proverbs 24:5

“A wise man is full of strength, and a man of knowledge enhances his might.”

By seeking the counsel of wise individuals, we can tap into their knowledge and wisdom, which ultimately strengthens us and enhances our abilities.

Proverbs 28:26

“Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.”

This verse cautions against placing excessive trust in our own understanding and highlights the importance of walking in wisdom. By seeking counsel and following wise advice, we can experience deliverance from folly and its consequences.

Psalms 1:1-2

“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law, he meditates day and night.”

This passage emphasizes the importance of seeking godly counsel and avoiding the influence of wicked individuals. By delighting in the Lord’s teachings and meditating on His law, we position ourselves to receive wise guidance and make righteous choices.

Proverbs 11:12

“Whoever belittles his neighbor lacks sense, but a man of understanding remains silent.”

This verse encourages us to exercise restraint and wisdom by not belittling or demeaning others. It reminds us that true understanding is characterized by humility and the ability to hold our tongues.

Proverbs 24:26

“Whoever gives an honest answer kisses the lips.”

In this verse, we are reminded of the importance of providing honest and truthful counsel to others. By doing so, we exhibit love and show that we genuinely care for their well-being.

Proverbs 25:12

“Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise reprover to a listening ear.”

This verse illustrates the value of receiving constructive criticism from wise individuals. Just as a gold ring is prized, the reproach of a wise person can have a transformative impact on someone who is willing to listen and learn.

Proverbs 27:17

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”

This verse emphasizes that through healthy and constructive relationships, we can refine and sharpen each other. By seeking wise counsel and engaging in meaningful conversations with others, we can grow in wisdom and understanding.

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 highlights the skill of a wise counselor in helping to uncover the deep desires and intentions of a person’s heart. Understanding and discernment are necessary to draw out and address the underlying motivations and aspirations within individuals.

Proverbs 15:23

“To make an answer before listening is both foolish and shameful.”

This verse cautions against hastily giving responses without first listening and understanding the situation. It reminds us that wisdom and prudence require attentive ears and thoughtful consideration.

Proverbs 16:22

“Good sense is a fountain of life to him who has it, but the instruction of fools is folly.”

In this verse, we are reminded that possessing good sense and wisdom brings life and vitality. It contrasts with the worthless instruction of fools, which leads to foolishness and futility.

Proverbs 20:18

“Plans are established by counsel; by wise guidance wage war.”

This verse highlights the importance of seeking counsel before making plans or engaging in conflict. Wise guidance and counsel are crucial in establishing successful strategies and approaches.

Proverbs 18:13

“If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.”

This verse warns against the folly of speaking without first listening and understanding fully. It reminds us to be attentive and considerate in our interactions, avoiding hasty and uninformed responses.

Proverbs 12:1

“Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.”

In this verse, we are reminded that embracing discipline and accepting correction are indications of a desire for knowledge and wisdom. Rejecting reproof, on the other hand, is foolish and limits opportunities for growth and understanding.

Proverbs 17:10

“A rebuke goes deeper into a man of understanding than a hundred blows into a fool.”

This verse highlights the impact of constructive criticism on those who possess understanding and wisdom. They are receptive to rebuke and willing to learn, whereas fools are resistant to correction and fail to grasp its significance.

Proverbs 19:27

“Cease to hear instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.”

This verse serves as a reminder to remain teachable and receptive to instruction. Neglecting to listen and learn can lead to straying from the path of knowledge and wisdom.

Proverbs 23:12

“Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.”

This verse encourages us to actively engage in receiving instruction and knowledge. It emphasizes the importance of attentiveness and a willing heart when it comes to seeking wisdom.

Proverbs 1:5

“Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.”

This verse appeals to the wise to continue seeking learning and understanding. It promises that in doing so, guidance and direction will be obtained, further enhancing their wisdom.

Proverbs 8:33

“Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it.”

This verse emphasizes the importance of not neglecting instruction and admonishes us to be attentive to wisdom’s teachings. By heeding wisdom’s voice, we can grow in knowledge and become wise.

Proverbs 28:13

“Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.”

This verse reminds us that seeking wise counsel also involves acknowledging our faults and confessing our sins. By doing so, we open ourselves to the mercy and forgiveness of God and those around us.