Why You Shouldn’t Make Big Decisions Alone, According to the Bible.
Have you ever tried to assemble something complicated by yourself without the instructions? I have…. I failed! I tried laying out all the pieces, guessed, hoped for the best, but before lon,g I just felt lost and frustrated and, honestly, ready to quit!
Life can feel like that sometimes too. There are times when making the right decision can feel like you have to solve a giant puzzle without all the pieces.
Back in the day, kingdoms and nations depended on strong leaders. But even kings, who seemed like they had it all together, knew better than to go it alone. Their safety, and the safety of their people, usually rested on listening to wise counselors – people they could trust to help them make the best decisions for their kingdom and their people. When leaders acted in pride or isolation, disaster often followed. The principle hasn’t changed since then: we all need guidance beyond ourselves.
The Scripture
“For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.”
Proverbs 11:14 (NIV)
Breaking down Proverbs 11:14
This proverb paints a vivid contrast:
- Without guidance, there’s defeat, confusion, and even ruin.
- With many advisers, there’s safety, victory, and wise choices.
Why does the scripture specifically say “many advisers”? God knows that no single human perspective covers it all. We can think we see every angle, but the truth is, we each have blind spots.
When we choose to look for advice, especially from people who care for us and seek God’s heart, we add layers of insight that help us avoid pitfalls and make smarter, wiser decisions.
Sometimes, pride says, “I’ve got this!” But humility reminds us, “I might not see everything clearly, I need help.”
In biblical times, a king’s ability to build a strong circle of counsel often determined the fate of the entire nation. Today, it’s not so different with our families, workplaces, and our personal lives.
But notice this: the right advisers are key. Godly wisdom, not just popular opinion, makes all the difference! A “multitude of counselors” who love God and seek what’s good and true – that’s where real victory and wisdom start.
Letting Others Help You Grow
How can we put this idea into practice? It starts with a simple but sometimes scary step: simply asking for help.
Whether you’re making a big career move, working through a relationship, or even deciding how to spend your time, bringing others you trust into the conversation brings new clarity and perspective.
- Invite input: Don’t just go to anyone, rather look for spiritually mature friends, mentors, or family members who encourage you to follow God’s ways, not just what’s easy or popular.
- Listen actively: Sometimes wisdom comes in odd packages. Be willing to truly consider the advice, even if it challenges your first instincts.
- Pray together: Let those who advise you pray for and with you. Shared prayer often brings shared insight.
- Consider multiple viewpoints: Even among wise people, opinions might be different. Ask God to help you discern what lines up with His Word and character.
- Check against Scripture: No matter how persuasive advice sounds remember that God’s Word is always the final authority.
- Pay it forward: You can be an adviser, too! Offer honest, kind advice to people in your community when they need help or advice.
It’s not a sign of weakness to ask for help; it’s wisdom. Remember that even Jesus gathered a group of close friends, encouraging them to pray, listen, and support each other.
Reflection Questions
- When was a time you made a tough decision without asking for anyone’s advice? What was the result?
- Who are the “wise advisers” in your life right now? How do you know that they are trustworthy and godly?
- Do you find it easy or hard to reach out for help? What gets in the way – pride, fear, not wanting to bother others with your problems?
- Have you ever received advice that seemed challenging at first but later proved to be exactly what you needed?
- What steps can you take to build a circle of wise, spiritually mature people around you?
- How does hearing from multiple voices help you see God’s will more clearly?
- How could you offer wisdom or support to someone in your life who seems to be facing a tough decision of their own?
Affirmation
I am not meant to walk alone, and I will seek godly counsel as I make decisions.
Closing Prayer
Lord,
Thank You for the gift of good friends, family, and wise advisers. Sometimes I’m tempted to just go it alone, but I know Your Word reminds me how much I need others. Help me recognize pride or fear that keeps me from reaching out. Give me a humble heart to ask for and truly hear godly counsel. Surround me with people who want what’s best for me, and make me bold enough to offer encouragement and wisdom to others when they need it. Thank You for being with me in every decision, guiding me through those You’ve placed in my life.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
