Table of Contents
The Gifts of the Holy Spirit
Jesus said to His disciples, “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come” (John 16:13). Some interpret this verse to mean that Christians are to reject godly counselors and spiritual leaders but seek advise only from the Holy Spirit.
However, God also ordained that specific godly people will receive certain gifts of the Holy Spirit. The Scripture tell us that “The Holy Spirit is given to each of us in a special way. That is for the good of all” (1 Corinthians 12:7). To some people, the Spirit gives a message of wisdom. Others will have a message of knowledge (verse 8). And others will be given the distinguishing of spirits (verse 10).
Therefore, the person who has been given the gift of wisdom will be able to weigh any situation and give his council in a clear and logical way. His knowledge comes from the study of the Scriptures, or directly from God by special inspiration. Thus, in His church, God ordained that anointed prophets, pastors, deacons and spiritual leaders will help educate the members and guide them in God’s truth.
Godly Counselors
With man’s limited capability and knowledge, it is sensible to seek the advice of godly wise counselors who have prudence, knowledge, and special training. These godly counselors have had more experience in life and are therefore in a place to give council. The more difficult a situation the more necessary such consultation (Proverbs 11:14; 15:22).
As these anointed ones share their insight and discernment, they will ensure that every important factor is weighed (proverbs 15:22; 20:18; 24:6). They will be able to give the right advice that directs the seekers in the right path towards eternal life (Proverbs 5, 10, 32). The following are Bible references to the importance of godly counselors:
“Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22).
“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14).
“For by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory” (Proverbs 24:6).
“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice” (Proverbs 12:15).
“Plans are established by counsel; by wise guidance wage war” (Proverbs 20:18).
“Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future” (Proverbs 19:20).
“By insolence comes nothing but strife, but with those who take advice is wisdom” (Proverbs 13:10).
“Better was a poor and wise youth than an old and foolish king who no longer knew how to take advice” (Ecclesiastes 4:13).
“The ear that listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise. Whoever ignores instruction despises himself, but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence” (Proverbs 15:31).
“But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin” (Hebrews 3:13).
A person makes the best choice when he first seeks God’s wisdom (James 1:5), fully studies a matter from different sides, and also seeks the council of His anointed minsters (Proverbs 3:5).
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
