Led by the Holy SpiritSample

Day#5. Recognize the gifts of God around you

Salvation is in the great number of counselors, says the author of the book of Proverbs. Many projects fail for lack of good counselors. The crucial point when talking about counselors is to choose them well. 

They may be spiritual authorities such as a pastor, a house group leader, but also Christian friends or people who are more mature in the faith. A non-Christian can also give excellent advice if that is his or her area of expertise. Here are some points to consider when choosing a counselor. First of all, it must be validated that this counselor has no conflict of interest in the decision. For example, a salesperson or banker who will be getting a commission is not necessarily impartial. Furthermore, one should not rely on titles, but on the fruits that people bear.  The author of the epistle to the Hebrews tells us to consider the end of the life of our spiritual leaders and to imitate their faith. Indeed, someone's authority in a field comes not from his age or title, but from the fruit of his/her own decisions in that field. However, it is quite possible to learn from the mistakes of others, if we are careful not to repeat them!

If you are married, consider the advice of your respective parents, but don't let them run your household! It is quite possible and likely that you will make decisions that go against your parents' opinions. This is not a lack of honor, but an expression of the fact that your home is independent of your parents' home, which is God's plan for marriage.

The same person can be excellent counsel in one area and not listen in another, depending on the area of the question asked. So don't just rely on one person, be sure to cross-reference points of view, experiences and recommendations. 

Some will tell you what you want to hear. Others will have, out of love, the courage to contradict you for your own good; they are your true friends!

Some, through lack of faith, will oppose God's will, while others will lead you to think like God, stretching you along the way. 

You should therefore consider the advice of others as a starting point for reflection or confirmation, but don't blindly rely on what someone tells you, no matter what they call it. Because once a decision is made, you alone will bear the consequences.

I invite you to pray with me: Let’s pray together: 

Father, thank you for the body of Christ. Thank you for the gifts you have given to the Church through the pastors, and thank you for the brothers and sisters in faith you have placed in my life. Guide me to the right counselors and give me your wisdom to recognize good advice and put it into practice. 

David Théry

Practical teachings to experience God