“Plans are established by seeking advice; so if you wage war, obtain guidance.” (Proverbs 20:18 NIV)
Ask for advice.
The best decisions are made when you ask for advice. In today’s world, the internet connects us in ways we’ve never experienced. We can seek advice from experts without ever leaving our home. Sometimes, the ones with the best advice are not who you think.
Recently I purchased an action camera for my tennis classes. First I asked the highschool students in the class, “Which camera should I buy?” They immediately had a recommendation. Kids know more about technology than most adults. Their advice was good. After researching their suggestions, I sought more advice for my final decision. Watching YouTube videos of people who actually used my final choices helped. As a result of seeking advice, I bought a great camera at a fraction of the cost because the next generation is about to emerge.
A good decision made by seeking advice from the people who know.
Consider the source.
When asking for advice, consider the source. Who you go to for advice is as important as the advice you receive. When I was single, I learned quickly, my single friends didn’t necessarily give the best advice for the type of relationship I hoped to find. My married friends gave much better advice. My desire was marriage, single women who have never been married don’t know what marriage is like.
Don’t ask a mechanic how to do heart surgery. Don’t ask a heart surgeon how to fix a car. Go to the right person to receive the right answer. God always has the right answer:
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” (Isaiah 30:21 NIV)
God is always the best source for advice. When we are making a decision, start with God. Ask Him, “Which way should I go?” He’ll tell you, either right or left. He’ll nudge you in the right direction, towards the right person, who can help you make a good decision.
I have a personal “Board of Directors” in my life. Friends I’ve met along this journey. Some I’ve known a lifetime. When I’m seeking advice, they are where I start. The depth of our relationships results in a trust that only comes from time. We’ve travelled the dusty road of life long enough to know, we have each other’s back. Often, I don’t hear what I want to hear. But I know whatever “it” is, I need to hear it.
Start with God. Build a network of friends you can trust. Seek advice, you’ll know the right decision to make.
Question of the Day:
What kind of advice do you need today?
Further Reading: 2 Chronicles 32-33 NIV, Romans 15:23-16:9 NIV, Psalm 25:16-22 NIV, Proverbs 20:16-18 NIV
