Counsel

When my children were little if there was something that they wanted or wanted to do they would come ask. If I, for any reason, said no, they would go ask their dad.

Haha, the logic of kids, ask mom, but if she says no, dad can override her no. 

And very often the kids after conspiring with each other,  it would be the youngest to be chosen to come do the asking. 

And if there are visiting children, they become the askers.

Children are smart, much smarter than we think. Really, have you ever been outwitted or outplayed by children?

Many times, however, mischief arises because younger or the less naive listen to the "wisdom" of older siblings.

At times I find myself hearing voices of others around that seem to make perfect sense. Then you hear another view, and that view appears to be very well thought out as well. 

Scripture mentions this:

The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him. (Proverbs 18:17 ESV)

So how does one determine what to do?

The world, the movies, the storybooks, they tell us to follow our hearts. But scripture mentions this as well:

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? (Jeremiah 17:9 ESV)

So what to do when trying to decide?

Scripture again speaks on this:

The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice. (Proverbs 12:15 ESV)

Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future. (Proverbs 19:20 ESV)

Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel. (Proverbs 27:9 ESV)

Do you seek wise counsel? I am so glad that I have several good, strong, faithful women that I can go to for wisdom and advice. 

I do not know it all. I appreciate good counsel. 

I love when I see churches that have a mentoring plan. Our young/new members need someone to teach and guide them.