GUIDED BY COUNSEL

 Scripture: 1 Samuel 30:1-8

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

In a world where many voices and influences exist, making life choices can sometimes be a difficult task and we often find ourselves seeking advice from others. But how can we tell if the counsel we receive is right or wrong? How do we ultimately decide what to accept? We must realize as believers that God’s word is always available to us as the ultimate counsel (Psalms 119:24).

SEIZE THE MOMENT

Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:1-8

“Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favourable or not.” 2 Timothy 4:2 (NLT)

  The phrase “there is time for everything” can never be overemphasized especially when you bear in mind the fact that your days on earth are numbered and someday you will be no more (Psalms 103:15). Why keep till tomorrow what ought to be done today when you are not sure of tomorrow? Your mandate as a Christian is to fully carry out the ministry that God has given to you which is preaching the good news of Christ.

There is never a perfect time for propagating the gospel of Christ. Remember that while you wait and hesitate, many souls await the harvest. It does not matter how unwilling they are or how long it takes to convert them. Be patient while preaching, correcting and rebuking them. By so doing, they will gradually come to the knowledge of the truth. You may be in an environment where it is difficult or unfavourable for you to preach the gospel but draw courage from Apostle Paul’s advice. Do not be afraid of facing trials and tribulations as long as they are for a good cause (v5).

As a Christian, can you honestly say to yourself, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race?” Are you pushing till tomorrow what you ought to do today because of one challenge or the other? God wants you to spread the good news. Remember that this is not in vain because a great prize which is the crown of righteousness awaits you (v6).

PRAYER: Lord, help me to capitalize on opportunities to preach the word so that more souls can come to the knowledge of the truth in Jesus name.

FAITH BYTE: I preach without ceasing. A crown of glory awaits me.

USE YOUR TONGUE WISELY

Scripture: Proverbs 15:1-4

“Don’t use fowl or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” Ephesians 4:29 (NLT)

The tongue is a mighty weapon that has the power to build or destroy depending on how it is used. It can make the difference in a conflict or dispute. There are also times when silence may be as required as words once spoken to another cannot be withdrawn and like broken glass may be nearly impossible to put back together. This means that your words can create problems.

WISDOM’S BEDROCK

Scripture: Proverbs 9:1-12

“Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom…” Proverbs 9:10 (NLT)

If it was possible to purchase wisdom with money, inherit it from parents or receive it as a reward for something, then it will be within the reach of all; both believers and unbelievers. The scriptures remind us that the fear of the Lord is the bedrock of wisdom. How can you make it through life without wisdom and how can you have wisdom without the fear of God?

THE ANT’S LESSON

Scripture: Proverbs 6:1-11

“Work brings profit, but mere talk leads to poverty! Proverbs 14:23 (NLT)

Ants are widely known as industrious, diligent and well organized animals. They are self-driven and can work without leadership or supervision. They work hard to gather for rainy days and so they are never in lack no matter the weather (v8). Humans are created with more developed and advanced abilities.

LOYALTY PAYS

Scripture: Proverbs 3:1-12

“Never let loyalty and kindness leave you!...” Proverbs 3:3 (NLT)

 Feedback: Consider what it will take to always say the right words

Many people stay committed to things or people simply because they believe and expect they will receive favours from them. They do not believe in going through the thick and thin in any matter or relationship. For these people, if there is nothing to gain, then there is no place for them. Our commitment to anything should go beyond benefits,

WISDOM’S TREASURE

Scripture: Proverbs 2:1-13

“Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures” Proverbs 2:4 (NLT)

Knowledge is gotten through learning and experience but wisdom is a unique gift from God that can be gotten by earnestly seeking for it from God for He alone gives wisdom (v6). If, for example, you realize that your house is sitting on an oil well, nothing else will be relevant until you have dug and discovered the oil. This should be the mindset of any one whose desire is to acquire wisdom.