15 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. 16 By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.” (Matthew 7:15-20)
As we consider the Discipline of Counsel it is difficult to avoid concerns related to getting advice from the “wrong” people. This is obviously a legitimate area of concern and spiritual discernment is required. Jesus recognized this issue and provides an interesting perspective.
Please carefully read the passage above and answer the questions below.
Today’s Questions:
- Do you find it difficult to decide who you should seek counsel from?
- How can Jesus’ warning in the passage help you to decide who to accept counsel from?
March 17, 2016 at 12:41 am
As I get older it’s easer to decide who to seek counsel from. There is a core group of Christ followers who are friends and family that have proven to be wise in certain areas that I can go to depending on the topic. I have seen their fruit in their own lives and in the lives of others.
Recently I was reminded that God will use non-believers to give me wise counsel. Those tend to be “one offs” but when I look back it seems they were present in my life for a season to help advance a particular purpose.
This challenges me to produce good fruit of counsel to others.