Jun '25 • Wisdom
Importance of Counsel
‘Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.’ Proverbs 15:21
This verse teaches us a foundational principle of wisdom: success is rarely achieved in isolation. When we attempt to carry out plans or make major decisions without seeking wise counsel, we risk failure, disappointment, and unnecessary hardship. The word “purposes” refers to our intentions, plans, or goals—good or bad, spiritual or practical. Even the best ideas can falter when pursued with pride or without outside input. God designed us to walk in community, and part of that design includes the humility to listen to others.
Proverbs 11:14 reinforces this truth, saying, “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.” A lack of counsel brings not only disappointment, but danger. When we trust solely in our own understanding, we become blind to our own weaknesses, assumptions, and blind spots. Proverbs 3:5 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.” Leaning on our own understanding is not only limited—it can be deceiving. God often uses the voices of others, especially the wise and godly, to bring clarity, correction, and confirmation.
The second part of the verse highlights the strength
found in a multitude of counsellors. This does not mean simply surrounding ourselves with people who tell us what we want to hear, but those who walk in truth and fear the Lord. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 teaches, “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow.” Godly counsel is a source of stability. It anchors our plans in wisdom and gives our steps firmness and direction. When counsel is sought with a heart that is teachable, plans are not only more likely to succeed—they are more likely to honor God.
This verse also reveals something about our hearts. A refusal to seek counsel often flows from pride. We don’t want to admit that we don’t have all the answers. But James 4:6 says, “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” Humility opens the door to wisdom. It acknowledges that others may see what we do not, and that God can use their insights to guide our steps.
In practical life—whether it’s relationships, business, ministry, or daily decisions—the believer who seeks and listens to godly counsel is far more likely to walk securely. Plans built with prayer, discernment, and the wise input of others are established because they are rooted in humility and truth. And ultimately, the greatest Counselor is the Lord Himself. Isaiah 9:6 calls Him “The Counsellor,” and through His Word and Spirit, He leads us when our hearts are open. A life guided by wise counsel is a life grounded in the fear of the Lord and marked by the fruit of wisdom.
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Importance of Counsel
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