In the biblical context, advisors play a crucial role in guiding leaders and individuals in making decisions that align with God's will and wisdom. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings on the importance of seeking wise counsel and the characteristics of good advisors.

Old Testament Examples

1. Joseph as an Advisor to Pharaoh: Joseph, known for his ability to interpret dreams, became an advisor to Pharaoh in Egypt. His wisdom and discernment, given by God, enabled him to interpret Pharaoh's dreams and propose a plan to save Egypt from famine. Genesis 41:39-40 records Pharaoh's acknowledgment: "Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, 'Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one as discerning and wise as you. You shall be in charge of my house, and all my people are to obey your commands.'"

2. Jethro's Advice to Moses: Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, provided crucial advice on leadership and delegation. Observing Moses' overwhelming burden of judging the people, Jethro suggested appointing capable men to serve as judges. Exodus 18:17-19 states, "But Moses’ father-in-law said to him, 'What you are doing is not good. You will surely wear out—both you and these people who are with you—because the task is too heavy for you. You cannot do it alone. Now listen to me; I will give you some advice, and may God be with you.'"

3. Ahithophel and Hushai: During Absalom's rebellion against King David, Ahithophel was known for his wise counsel, which was highly regarded. However, God thwarted his advice through Hushai, David's friend, to protect David. 2 Samuel 17:14 notes, "Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said, 'The advice of Hushai the Archite is better than that of Ahithophel.' For the LORD had purposed to thwart the good counsel of Ahithophel in order to bring disaster upon Absalom."

New Testament Teachings

1. The Role of the Holy Spirit: In the New Testament, the Holy Spirit is described as the ultimate Counselor and guide for believers. Jesus promised the Holy Spirit to His disciples, emphasizing His role in teaching and reminding them of His teachings. John 14:26 states, "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you."

2. Seeking Godly Wisdom: The New Testament encourages believers to seek wisdom from God and to surround themselves with wise and godly advisors. James 1:5 advises, "Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him."

Characteristics of Good Advisors

1. Wisdom and Understanding: Advisors should possess wisdom and understanding, often seen as gifts from God. Proverbs 1:5 states, "Let the wise listen and gain instruction, and the discerning acquire wise counsel."

2. Integrity and Righteousness: Advisors should be people of integrity and righteousness, providing counsel that aligns with God's principles. Proverbs 11:14 highlights, "For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors there is deliverance."

3. Fear of the Lord: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and advisors should have a reverent relationship with God. Proverbs 9:10 declares, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."

Warnings Against Ungodly Counsel

The Bible also warns against ungodly counsel, which can lead individuals away from God's path. Psalm 1:1 cautions, "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers."

In summary, the Bible underscores the importance of seeking wise and godly advisors, who are characterized by wisdom, integrity, and a fear of the Lord, while also warning against the dangers of ungodly counsel.

The Period of Controversy, 1614-1645.
... By the time it had received its final revision at the hands of the King and his
Scotch advisors in London, such events had transpired, and such a spirit of ...
/.../johnston/presbyterian worship/chapter v the period of.htm

The Shepherd among his Flock
... Mayor Russell Wilson remarked that "Frank Nelson was the spiritual advisor to many
men whom you would not think of as having spiritual advisors." The downright ...
/.../herrick/frank h nelson of cincinnati/the shepherd among his flock.htm

Church and State in New England
... The starting-point of precedent for the elders of the church to be regarded as advisors
only and the General Court as authoritative seems to have been in a ...
/.../chapter iii church and state.htm

Advisors (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Advisors (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 24:6 for by wise guidance
you wage your war; and victory is in many advisors. (WEB). ...
/a/advisors.htm - 6k

Advocate (7 Occurrences)

/a/advocate.htm - 11k

Guidance (9 Occurrences)
... (WEB ASV NAS RSV NIV). Proverbs 24:6 for by wise guidance you wage your war;
and victory is in many advisors. (WEB ASV NAS RSV NIV). ...
/g/guidance.htm - 9k

Advises (1 Occurrence)

/a/advises.htm - 6k

Wage (39 Occurrences)
... wage war! (WEB RSV NIV). Proverbs 24:6 for by wise guidance you wage your
war; and victory is in many advisors. (WEB NAS RSV). Isaiah ...
/w/wage.htm - 18k

Victory (71 Occurrences)
... (WEB JPS ASV NAS RSV NIV). Proverbs 24:6 for by wise guidance you wage your
war; and victory is in many advisors. (WEB NAS RSV NIV). ...
/v/victory.htm - 27k

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