SEEKING COUNSEL FROM GOD AND NOT THE WORLD By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Isaiah 30:1-2
"Woe to the rebellious children, saith the Lord, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin: That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt."
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INTRODUCTION
Many times throughout history, God's people have fallen into the trap of seeking counsel and help from the world instead of relying on Him. The Bible clearly warns against placing trust in worldly systems, leaders, and alliances because doing so leads to spiritual downfall. The Lord desires that His people seek Him first and put their complete trust in Him rather than in earthly powers.
This teaching examines the dangers of turning to the world for guidance, the consequences of such actions, and the call for believers to remain faithful to God. We will explore how past generations suffered for seeking help outside of God's will and how we, in these modern times, must avoid making the same mistakes.
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THE DANGER OF SEEKING WORLDLY COUNSEL
Supporting Scripture: Jeremiah 17:5
"Thus saith the Lord; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord."
Throughout history, God has warned His people about the dangers of trusting in worldly counsel rather than seeking divine wisdom. When the Israelites sought alliances with Egypt and other nations instead of relying on God, they faced destruction. Their misplaced trust in human power led them into captivity and suffering.
Today, many believers are guilty of the same mistake. Instead of seeking God's wisdom through prayer, fasting, and His Word, they turn to secular opinions, political systems, and worldly philosophies. This choice leads them away from God's protection and into spiritual ruin.
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REBELLION AGAINST GOD’S GUIDANCE
Supporting Scripture: 1 Samuel 15:23
"For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king."
When God's people ignore His guidance and seek help from the world, they are engaging in spiritual rebellion. In biblical history, whenever Israel disregarded God's prophets and chose worldly ways, they suffered loss and destruction. The rejection of divine guidance is equivalent to rejecting God Himself.
The same rebellion is evident today when Christians refuse to heed God's Word and instead pursue worldly pleasures, ideologies, and influences. They dishonor God by putting their trust in men rather than in the Almighty, leading to spiritual blindness and separation from Him.
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THE CONSEQUENCES OF WORLDLY DEPENDENCE
Supporting Scripture: Proverbs 14:12
"There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death."
History and scripture show that those who depend on worldly wisdom and guidance face serious consequences. The Israelites, when they relied on Egypt for help, found themselves enslaved and oppressed. Similarly, when believers today choose the world's ways over God's instructions, they experience spiritual bondage, anxiety, and turmoil.
Worldly counsel may seem appealing because it promises quick solutions and comfort, but in reality, it leads to destruction. Only those who place their trust in God will experience His peace, provision, and divine security.
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GOD’S CALL TO TOTAL DEPENDENCE ON HIM
Supporting Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
God desires His people to trust Him fully in all aspects of life. He is a loving and faithful Father who provides guidance, wisdom, and protection to those who seek Him. When we turn to God in prayer, study His Word, and follow His commands, He leads us into righteousness and victory.
We are reminded that seeking God's counsel brings blessings, while trusting in the world brings curses. The choice is ours: to walk in faith and obedience or to follow the deception of the world.
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SUMMARY
The dangers of seeking worldly counsel are evident throughout scripture. Whenever God's people placed their trust in men rather than in Him, they faced hardship and judgment. Rebellion against God’s guidance leads to spiritual downfall, while trust in Him brings peace and stability.
In these uncertain times, believers must choose to depend on God and reject the deceptive counsel of the world. God’s wisdom is unshakable, and He rewards those who put their trust in Him.
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CONCLUSION
God's people must learn from past mistakes and avoid turning to worldly systems for help. We are called to remain faithful, seek God's guidance, and trust in His wisdom above all else. When we put our confidence in God rather than in men, we will experience His divine protection and blessings.
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CALL TO ACTION
Believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance daily through prayer, scripture, and spiritual discernment. Do not rely on human wisdom but lean on the everlasting wisdom of God. Turn away from worldly influences and commit your life fully to Him.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
God is faithful to those who trust Him. No matter the challenges you face, He will lead you in righteousness if you seek Him wholeheartedly. Do not be swayed by the world, but stand firm in your faith and let God be your source of wisdom and strength.
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SALVATION PRAYER
If you have not yet given your life to Christ, now is the time to make that decision. Pray this prayer with sincerity:
Heavenly Father, I come before You in humility, acknowledging that I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son, that He died for my sins, and that He rose again on the third day. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. Lord Jesus, come into my heart and be my Lord and Savior. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to walk in Your ways. From this day forward, I choose to follow You and trust in You alone. Thank You for saving me and giving me eternal life. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
If you prayed this prayer, welcome to the family of God! Seek a Bible-believing church and grow in your faith. May God bless you abundantly!
