Seeking Advice and Making Decisions

Sometimes, we face tough choices in life. These choices might be about school, career, relationships, friendships, or how to handle certain situations. When we’re not sure what to do, it can feel comforting to ask others for advice. God encourages us to seek counsel, the Bible says that “plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22).

It's not enough to get advice, it’s also important to remember to know which advice is good or not so good. Ultimately, the final choice is up to whomever is seeking the advice.

Why Ask for Advice?

Asking for advice is wise. Others might have faced similar choices before. They can share their experiences and what they learned. God places people in our lives to help us learn and grow, and listening to them can give us more understanding.

Here are some reasons why we ask for advice:

To Gain New Perspectives: Others may see things differently and can offer insights we haven’t considered. Their experiences can help us understand a situation from a new angle.

To Learn from Others' Experiences: People who have faced similar situations can share what worked for them, helping us avoid mistakes they may have made.

To Make Wise Choices: Proverbs 15:22 says, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.” Getting advice helps us think through our choices carefully.

To Feel Supported: Making big decisions can feel overwhelming, but asking for advice reminds us we’re not alone. It can bring comfort knowing others care and want to help.

How to Make Your Decision.

Pray First: Before making a choice, ask God for help. He promises to give wisdom to anyone who asks (James 1:5).

Take Time: Sometimes, we want to decide quickly, but waiting can give us a clearer answer. God often speaks when we’re patient.

Listen to God’s Peace: If you feel peaceful about your choice, it might be God saying you’re on the right path. If you feel nervous or uncertain, it may be wise to pause and pray again. Sometimes the anxiety you feel may also mean you need to be courageous and trust God for the outcome.

Three things to avoid and keep in mind in the process.

Avoid Relying Too Much on Others: It’s wise to listen, but remember that only you truly understand your life and what God may be guiding you toward. Ultimately, the final choice should be yours.

Be Careful of Pressure: Sometimes, people may unintentionally push you to follow their advice. Keep in mind that you’re not obligated to act on what others say if it doesn’t feel right to you or align with your values.

You are not seeking for validation: You seek advice to get different perspectve on the same thing. You are not seeking anyone to validate your dreams or goals.

Trust God with the Outcome.

Every choice we make have consequences, but you don’t have to be afraid. Even if things don’t go as planned, God can still use the situation for good. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him.”

The process is as important as the outcome.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help—but know that the final choice is between you and God. Having done all, Stand!

Shalom.