Where we get our counsel

Way back when I was in high school, I heard a song called, “Who to listen to.”  And it said,

You’ve got to know who to, who not to listen to.
They’re gonna hit you from all sides,
Gotta make up your mind who to,
Who not to listen to. — Amy Grant

That’s essentially what Solomon is saying here in this passage.

He starts by saying who we should listen to.

Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.

They will be a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.  (Proverbs 1:8-9)

Inasmuch as our parents teach us what’s in accord with God’s word, we would be wise to listen to them.  Their experiences in life outstrip our own, and they can give us insight that we can lack at times.

I can look back on the things my father taught me, the need for friends, and the need for integrity in my life in particular, and I’m very grateful for the instruction that he gave me.

They weren’t really long lectures either.  Neither conversation lasted more than 10 minutes, although I have to say the one on integrity was pretty painful as it came when my dad had caught me in a lie.

But the things I learned from him helped me grow into the man I am today.  I’m so grateful to and for him.

Solomon goes on to say, however,

My son, if sinners entice you, do not give in to them.  (10)

Solomon speaks here specifically of those who would entice you to join them in attacking and stealing from others, and how it will all fall upon your own head if you join in with them.

But the principal holds for any other sins people might try to entice you into.

I had a friend who was invited to go to on a trip specifically for the purpose of engaging prostitutes.  He was wise enough to turn them down.

Others are not so wise, and they end up with AIDS or other sexually transmitted diseases.

Sometimes people are even hoping for your best, but give you advice contrary to the Word of God.  Sometimes, for example, they encourage you to sleep with your girlfriend, or to even move in with her, when God clearly says not to.

The result?  Unwanted pregnancies, abortions, and a lot of hurt and pain.

Who are you listening to?  Where are you getting your advice from?

Wherever you get it from, always compare what the people around you are saying with what God is saying.

Where it agrees, follow it.  Where it disagrees, follow the standards God has laid down.

Not only will you avoid trouble by doing so, but you’ll find true joy as well.