Scripture
Psalm 1:1–3
Psalm 1:1–3 gives us a powerful picture of a person who chooses God’s wisdom over the voices of the world. Scripture compares that person to a tree planted by streams of water—fruitful, strong and flourishing in season.
Every day, someone or something is influencing us. Friends, family, colleagues, social media, culture and popular opinion can all shape the way we think. The important question is: Whose counsel are we following?
Think about Rehoboam in 1 Kings 12. When he became king, the experienced elders advised him to serve the people and speak kindly to them. But Rehoboam rejected their counsel and listened instead to the advice of his younger companions. His unwise decision contributed to the division of the kingdom.
One decision. Two sets of advice. Very different consequences.
Wise leadership isn’t about knowing everything ourselves. It includes knowing whose voice deserves our attention.
Before making important decisions, we should bring them before God. His Word gives us principles, His Spirit gives us direction, and He can place wise people around us to help us see what we may be missing.
Practical Steps
Pause before acting. Don’t allow pressure to force you into a rushed decision.
Check the counsel against Scripture. Popular advice isn’t necessarily godly advice.
Choose wise voices. Surround yourself with people who will tell you the truth, not simply what you want to hear.
Stay planted. Spend regular time in God’s Word and prayer. Deep roots produce stability when difficult seasons come.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your wisdom and Your Word.
Help us to recognise the voices influencing our lives. Give us discernment to reject counsel that leads us away from Your truth and humility to receive wise correction.
Plant us deeply in Your Word. Guide our decisions, relationships, families and leadership. Surround us with wise people who will encourage us towards truth and righteousness.
May our lives be like trees planted by streams of water—rooted, fruitful and strong in every season.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
