Wise Counsel and Friendship

Open Your Bible

Proverbs 11:14, Proverbs 12:15, Proverbs 13:20, Proverbs 17:17, Proverbs 19:20, Proverbs 27:5-6, Proverbs 27:9-10

After completing your daily reading, come back to chat with fellow Bible readers about any reflections you have on the proverbs, introduction, or questions from today.

Over and over again, Proverbs both warns us and encourages us about the impact of the company we keep. Wise friendships not only add value and joy to our lives, but they also provide the necessary counsel and correction needed for walking in the way of wisdom.

Reflection Questions:

What does it look like to walk with wise people (Proverbs 13:20)? Who are those people for you?

Is it easy or difficult for you to go to others for wise counsel? Why?

What wise counsel or instruction do you have to give? Is there anyone in your life right now who needs your wisdom, experience, or counsel? 

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98 thoughts on "Wise Counsel and Friendship"

  1. Emily says:

    Going through the start of a new season and have been apart from my former church community for the past couple years .. a conflict within my closest circle of friends at church went unresolved with no accountability from the church community and left me feeling isolated as I had done as far as it depended on me… and this year I felt like God was calling me to reach out to my old friend from that group and try again to reconcile.. it was successful and just months prior a big shift had happened in that community which had reset their perspective and while I do have peace in this I have been wrestling with forgiveness for the community which did not support me and took so long to hold people accountable… many people at that church community see me as the unity breaker or someone operating outside Gods plan for believers and in an ideal world I see that is so tempting to make the unity breaker the one who isolated isolated… it’s easier to average and provide a variance comment for. God knows the truth and He doesn’t assign me the task of changing anyone’s mind or proving my position to onlookers/others and asks me to only pick up my cross and follow Him. By the Holy Spirits help and work in me and the hearts of others I pray that He will give understanding on the assignment we all have been given to practice obedience and live peaceably in unity like James 3. I pray for verse 18 to come to pass and know God keeps ALL his promises and is good ALL the time.

  2. Heather G says:

    Gods timing is perfect. Just today, I met for lunch with one of my old church friends that I have lost touch with due to life changes. I asked her to pray for me recently via text because without much effort, I knew our friendship was genuine and centered around Christ. When we met today, I poured out some burdens resting on my chest and some spiritual battles I have been struggling with. She immediately called me to action not out of frustration but out of love. She told me very clearly and directly that I need to take my faith seriously and get involved with a trusted believing community of people, to seek wisdom and counsel from older members of the church.

    This week has been a spiritual battle for me. I pray that God would remain at the center of my heart. I thank Him and praise Him for never leaving me, constantly pursuing me and the unending forgiveness of Jesus’s blood. I pray that He would help guide me straight to the path that He needs me for. I pray that I would do a good job of setting my burdens at His feet, trusting His plan for my life and taking action as an obedient follower of Him.

  3. Jessica Thomas says:

    I have tried to make church life a 7 days a week thing. As a busy mum of 3 even a baby with a cold can mean I miss a Sunday service so i have been trying to connect in lots of ways throughout the week. The effort I have made at church is evident in the friendships I have made and it’s amazing to connect with others who have the same perspective as you and understand my situation. Their counsel has been invaluable in difficult chapters of life!

  4. Nichole Sells says:

    My pastor is a very good counsel for me. I have also become very close to my pastor’s wife. We are battle buddies, and I am learning so much from her. Sometimes it is easy for me to ask for guidance, however sone situations are harder to discuss. I am very dedicated to studying my Bible daily. My husband and my children, do not study at all. I hope I can impart some of what I am learning on them. I pray my dedication will inspire them in their walk with God!

  5. Sammi E says:

    I’ve learned over the years it’s the quality, not the quantity. I’m a people pleaser and I hate confrontation so I tend to befriend anyone who will have me. Not that this is always bad, but in the past I have rushed into some friendships which did not help me grow and were hard to be freed from when I knew I needed to walk away. As I get older I’m thankful for my true friendships even though we don’t all live in the same cities anymore.

  6. Paula Mourin says:

    ♥️

  7. Wanda Woehlert says:

    What does it look like to walk with wise people?
    I have found when walking with the wise women that I am surrounded by, has shown me when to say something and when to sit back and pray. It has humbled me, and I have learned to genuinely think before I speak and wait for the Holy Spirit to give me discernment.

    1. Searching says:

      Think before I speak ❤️

  8. Lauren G says:

    Proverbs does a good job emphasizing the importance of paying attention to the company we keep. Wisdom is gained by listening to advice/accepting correction. Even though rebuke is not always pleasant in the moment it is to our benefit. At various points on my life I have had people that I was close enough to that would have felt comfortable calling me out if I needed correction (without me even needing to ask) but I’m not sure that has been as much a part of my life as of late. That is not to say I don’t have people who would provide advice if asked (I do, and that in and of itself is valuable – my sister is one example of this, she doesn’t live close but we speak by phone every few weeks and I she has provided wise, thoughtful advice when I have asked) Even son, I am missing that kind of close wise friendship

    For me, as a I reflect I can recognize that one of the barriers for me to having this again, is that I am a somewhat private person and have a hard time truly opening up/being vulnerable. I think I worry about being judged and also about confidentiality. At the same time I know that I missing out on valuable advice/correction that flows out of a close Godly friendship

    1. Tami says:

      I understand how you feel Lauren. I too can be very private and don’t always feel comfortable sharing. But this is a great, safe place to do so.

  9. Adrianne says:

    What does it look like to walk with wise people (Proverbs 13:20)? It’s a feeling of family and companionship for me. It feels like I always have someone in my corner to go to at all times.

    Who are those people for you?
    My parents, siblings and friends are the people who always have my back.

    Is it easy or difficult for you to go to others for wise counsel? Difficult
    Why?
    I have control and perfectionism issues

    What wise counsel or instruction do you have to give?
    Keep your loved ones close, get more sleep, and eat more fiber -unless you can’t for digestive reasons. (Trust me the more I age the more fiber and sleep are needed )
    Is there anyone in your life right now who needs your wisdom, experience, or counsel? Probably not

    1. Wendy B says:

      Good wisdom and advice:)

  10. Mindy Hencey says:

    These questions have definitely stopped me in my tracks over and over, calling for a deep soul search before even beginning to formulate an answer.

    What does it look like to walk with the wise people? I was functionally at a loss of words because I couldn’t get out of the poetic mind frame. So instead, I circled back to a concept of ‘what does my tribe’ look like and how does that connect back to the question. Coming from this viewpoint, those who demonstrate kindness, compassion, service, support and understanding, love, are welcoming, encouraging, followers of Christ (no matter where they are in their faith walks), and so many other words came to mind. I can immediately name several people within my tribe that fit these identifiers and would easily say these individuals are models/inspiration (I had a better descriptor but it’s not coming to mind) for how I want to live my life alongside living a Jesus-Shaped life. These individuals are family, friends, community members, fellow church members.

    Is it easy or hard to seek wise council?! Honestly, it’s easier when I feel comfortable with the person that I am going to. I have a couple of friends, who are more like sisters, that I can go to with anything and they will guide me through or point me in the direction I need to go. I have several others to that I can seek council with as well

  11. Nancy Davis says:

    So this is a difficult one for me. Recently I was in a position to absolutely rethink a couple of long term friendships. God CLEARLY was pruning and it was hard. As a result however, my time in His word has increased and is becoming more consistent. I am sort of in a silo at the moment but waiting on that time when He will bring a new friend who is wise, trustworthy and hungry for His word. The study is timely.

    1. Searching says:

      ❤️

  12. Caroline Bridges says:

    1. I know that walking with people is a good thing, but I often take too much pride in myself. As Carlos Whittaker once said “Don’t stand on issues, walk with people.”

    2. Difficult as I have been warned against talking to strangers + I know some people like TSA and the police need to be left alone unless if they talk to you. I feel that I am not allowed to trust anyone in real life. In my mind, I was basically told I’m not allowed to talk to anyone.

  13. Becky Kortman says:

    ❤️

  14. Cee Gee says:

    Typed comment on computer this time!
    .
    What does it look like to walk with wise people (Proverbs 13:20)?
    For me walking with the wise reflects the desire for discernment in knowing good from evil/the right path from the wrong path, and seeking guidance from one who has gained wisdom from the Word more intimately than I.
    .
    Who are those people for you? And
    Is it easy or difficult for you to go to others for wise counsel? Why?
    There are many ladies nearby that I can ask for prayer, but there are very few friends I know I can trust with a private matter and they are all online Bible study friends. One in particular stands out and while she isn’t nearby, I know she is always available and I can lean on her in confidence.
    .
    .
    SEARCHING mentioned trust: Confidentiality is a biggie for me, too! I have always been that person for others but sadly have not had that blessing very often in my life. That’s why this special friend is so important to me.
    .
    .
    KELLY NEO mentioned the younger gals at work and their untapped wisdom. Good point, Kelly! Sometimes as we seek counsel we recognize the wisdom within.
    Proverbs 27:17- As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.
    .
    A flag in our yard has Proverbs 17:17a on it – “…a friend loves at all times…”. It’s getting weathered, but I love it. I may post a picture of it on the FB page.
    .
    .
    RHONDA J – Your reply to my song comment earlier reminded me of Michael W. Smith’s old song – A Friend’s a Friend Forever if the Lord’s the Lord of them….
    .
    Love, hugs, and prayers! [heart]

    A friend loves at all times

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Yes, I think someone did post that, and then I began to sing it!

    2. Searching says:

      At all times ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

      1. Cee Gee says:

        ❤❤❤

  15. Monica Lynn says:

    I have a friend that although we are far apart we are close at heart. My friend has really been there for me with sincere heart and wisdom and understanding. She genuinely accepts me for me

  16. Traci Gendron says:

    I really need more Godly women in my life. I do have a friend that is a pastor and I adore his wife. I would definitely go to them.

  17. Cindy Hanna says:

    I’m blessed to know several women who are wise. Giving and receiving wisdom takes discernment. I’m thinking of a couple of people who fall into each category. They listen intently before giving suggestions and receive input with humility. I try to follow their examples.

  18. Mercy says:

    “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed” This verse brought back the memory from reading the book “the power of a praying parent”, by Stormie Omartian. I read this book before I had children (by God’s grace), and praying for husband book, in those early years of being clueless. Stormie, a prayer warrior, said she prayed this verse over her children so often, and that struck me. She did not want them destroyed by bad friendships. I was thinking to myself, dang, I would never know how to pray like that on my own. Thankful for such wise prayers Stormie has taught me through her books. Highly recommend her. I find the Bible offers countless wisdom, but it does take some unpacking, and it is my source of looking up for godly advices, along with psychology books (thanks to Mel Robbins channel). My grandma used to be my counselor, she listened and offered advice without judgment, she was not a critic, but a builder and an imparter of wisdom. First day back to school for us. Morning rush is back. Be blessed dear sisters.

    1. RhondaJ. says:

      Praying for your kids as they begin school! I love that you said your grandma was not a critic, but a builder and an imparter of wisdom! That’s what I am trying to be, I tend to be a critic first! I would describe my Madre that way as your grandma!

      1. Mercy says:

        ❤️❤️❤️

    2. Nicole Burke says:

      Love praying the Stormie books for both my children and husband!

    3. Tami says:

      Kathy Cunningham has a great website all about parenting our adult children. She is a Christian. I think the website is called “seed of hope”.

  19. Wendy B says:

    The blessing and gift of wise counsel and solid, Christ-like friendships in our lives simply can’t be understated. They are a life line. Strong friendship and community carried me and our family through very dark, difficult days at a time of crisis. They held us up.
    I am so grateful to have some of these in my life and they are made of multi generational women. I have a number of same age, older and younger friends that I keep in regular contact with that can speak into my life. I have been part of a multi-generational women’s Bible study for 20 years; 3 of us have been consistent the entire time, with some short break here and there during differing seasons of our lives. The 3 of us are now the older ones(in our 50’s) and we are made up of Mom’s with littles, school ages, Grandma’s and everyone in between. It is so rich to study God’s Word together, to learn together, to challenge one another and to hear and know the perspective of others at their stage of life. I also have a handful of young ladies that are in their mid-late 20’s now that I started meeting with while in their mid teens for mentorship/discipleship. At the time, they were youth leaders for my daughters and I wanted to encourage their serving in youth ministry but also encourage their hearts to abide in and grow in Lord where they were at. As these young women have grown they have become friends to me, encouraging me and praying for me. I also wanted my daugters to see the value and example of intentional multi-generatioal friendship and to see me investing in that. In my own life growing up, I really feel like that was lacking and I think that if I had those mentoring, iron sharpens iron friendships, I would have made some better decisions in my life at that time. For those of you that are wishing for wise counsel friends, I would just encourage you to put yourself out there. We are made for community. We are made for fellowship, seek it out. Find the place to find your people. The SRT community is so good but face to face connecting is so important.
    Lord we thank you for the gift of community. Thank you that you designed us to be walking with one another, to lift one another up, to challenge, direct and share wisdom and to grow in rooted faith in you. Blessings these ladies that meet in this space Lord and lead and guide them to others that can pour into their lives. Amen

    My wifi/internet is not great or consistent so having trouble loading the SRT page/posting/responding but trying to do so as connections allow :)

    1. RhondaJ. says:

      Amen Wendy! To all!
      You reminded me how amazing it was in times of trials that Godly friends were there to point me and then help me and my family during my major spine revision surgery when I was a single parent of a 4 year old. I always share those times when stressing the importance of groups!!

      But when you were talking about your big group I was thinking how the heck does that work, I can barely keep my 10 people on track, we all love to talk and share in the hour and half we meet! lol.

  20. B says:

    “Who are those wise people?”
    You She’s! ❤️

    So I am going back to yesterday’s reading on parents. Our kids are grown and I was not the Christian mom I should’ve been. I have grown in my walk a LOT since those days but still have LONG way to go! Seeing our daughter parent her littles has shown me what should’ve been. (Praise be to God that she is a great Christian mom in spite of me!) I pray for our kids to recognize and learn from my mistakes, forgive, and for God to heal any wounds. Anyone have any counsel on how to deal with my heart sickness over this?

    1. Margaret W. says:

      You can praise her for what a great job she is doing and simply ask her forgiveness for your shortcomings as a mom. You still have a chance to build a beautiful relationship with her and your grandchildren and influence future generations for good. What a precious opportunity!

      1. RhondaJ. says:

        Great answer!

        1. RhondaJ. says:

          And Yes…this community is full of Women of Wisdom! You are indeed friends and counsel!! I love that through the FB page we were able to further put a face on each other! :)

      2. B says:

        Thank you. ❤️
        I have done that to some extent. Daughter has been very kind and gracious. Probably need to do more and also more to another child and go there with another.

    2. Cee Gee says:

      You are so sweet! Praying for wisdom as you work on relationships. It’s so hard to know what to do/say sometimes. Trusting God to guide you! ❤

      1. B says:

        Thank you❤️

  21. Hannelora Wald says:

    God is trying to impress something about friendship and counsel and circles on my heart. Between today, and this last Sunday. I however have not put the dots together yet.

  22. Foster Mama says:

    Thank you to all who prayed yesterday, and for your supportive, edifying comments ❤️Carol H, ❤️Rhonda J,❤️Mercy, ❤️Lynne from Alabama, ❤️ Sharon Jersey Girl, ❤️Gramsiesue, ❤️AZ Walker

    Breakfast was great and even my brother in-law was asking how the “faith stuff is going”, knowing it is important to his mom…and perhaps his own heart starting to see it. I love his wife and her faith to bits… we’ll see how God uses it in their house. We even talked about fact that FIL has sometimes mentioned MAID in passing and everyone’s perspective / hopes.

    Thank you for prayers for me, for us, for his salvation and MIL to be assured that he has put himself into the hands of My Jesus, even if it means at the last minute.

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Yes, AMEN! It is a time to speak up, boldness for followers of the Almighty!! Time is short, we must be ready to plant so the Lord can harvest!! So glad it went well!! God is surely giving me boldness and words this week with my family!! Love ya!

  23. Tanya says:

    Another Friend’s song

    chorus
    And friends are friends forever
    If the Lord′s the Lord of them
    And a friend will not say never
    ‘Cause the welcome will not end
    Though it′s hard to let you go
    In the Father’s hands we know
    That a lifetime′s not too long
    To live as friends

    Michael Smith

    One of my teenage students died in a car accident and they played this song at her life celebration.

    The people in the Life Group I attend.
    It is easy to go to wise people for counsel. I am super selective whom I choose to go to for counseling.I like to go to a couple of the older women if my church who are prayer warriors.
    I share the word with people and try to share Godly wisdom.I try to get them scripture and encouragement them through prayer.

    Extra : Jesus had friends! Mary, Martha, Lazarus. He did not need counsel because he was wisdom. I can hear them singing: What a friend we have in Jesus.”

  24. Indiana Elaine says:

    I belong to a beautiful community of people who carry each other’s needs. We are a remnant of believers who belonged to a church that closed. I have experienced their prayers and support through this back surgery. They have carried me on wings of prayer when I can’t verbalize my own needs. I have felt their support in the wee hours of the morning when pain is stealing my sleep. Words cannot express what their support has meant. They certainly have given me strength for this journey.

    1. Cee Gee says:

      You are battle warriors sharing and surviving the church upheaval. That is a special bond and you are truly blessed to have each other! ❤

  25. Mari V says:

    Who does it look like? I’ve mentioned them before. My friend G and also my sweet friend S. They genuinely love me all times! For me, it’s easy to go to others for wise counsel as many times I need confirmation. I hope that for my daughter, I’ve been giving her wise counsel, even when it’s hard to hear, but I’m careful to give it to her gently and pray before I give it. Happy Monday sweet She’s. Out of time again, but was up earlier. My daughter is next to me and she was taking pics of the thunder! Yep it’s over 70 degrees here already this morning and thundering and here comes the rain……

    1. Foster Mama says:

      I’m with you!! My sister and I have both been blessed to have great, deep, godly friends throughout our lives.

      Her biggest heartbreak, wish, prayers is the same for her kids….we see God moving after so many years and continue to pray.

  26. Meghan Bertani-Yang says:

    I am so thankful that my church has a Bible study for moms and I am so glad that I joined it a few years ago. We have moms that have kids of various ages and we also have “mentor moms” who have been through the parenting journey and now have grandkids. It has been such a blessing to learn from them and they also say how much they are blessed to learn from the younger moms. I think having inter generational relationships

  27. Kerry Rowley says:

    ❤️

  28. Rachel (CO) says:

    I have been so blessed with wise mentors and friends. They have loved me well by telling me things that were hard to hear at the time, but which helped me grow. My husband is also godly and wise. I try to emulate these godly men and women when young women come to me for counsel or encouragement.

  29. Karen Breaux says:

    ❤✝️

  30. Rhonda J. says:

    I have NO IDEA why my comment is awaiting moderation..
    There was nothing in it to check, lol.

    Maybe I will throw out some thoughts of biblical friendships- Remember David had the friendship and correction of Nathan?! (Iron sharpens iron)
    And then I think about the brothers Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego! I bet they really held each other up to stay firm. It is easier to stand firm with others, even if just 2. (family)
    Mary and Elizabeth! I bet Mary was so thankful to be able to go to Elizabeth with something so huge on her, can you imagine! (Godly friendship and mentor)
    The disciples was a band of brothers trying to figure out everything together! (small group)

    1. Foster Mama says:

      I love this RHONDA J…and I think we can add Daniel as another wise friend for the 3 brothers!!

      I’ve barely watched any of The Chosen (although I’m excited for more) which has been a great reminder for me that Jesus did not chose an inherently cohesive group, who would easily get along but might even wonder at some points “Why that guy?!”…. I love your mention of them as a band of brothers / “small group”….God did so much through each and all of them.

      1. Rhonda J. says:

        You must start watching again, it is so good in my opinion! (there will always be the negative, but I think it gets people intrigued that aren’t believers and for us that know our Bible, we realize they have to create stories around the main characters.)

    2. Foster Mama says:

      (I sometimes don’t understand how a comment of mine ends up in moderation either… LoL. With you sister!!)

    3. Rhonda J. says:

      I also want to add scripture:

      Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 makes it clear we need others!

      9 Two are better than one,
      because they have a good return for their labor:
      10 If either of them falls down,
      one can help the other up.
      But pity anyone who falls
      and has no one to help them up.
      11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
      But how can one keep warm alone?
      12 Though one may be overpowered,
      two can defend themselves.
      A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

      I love the last sentence- a chord of 3 strands is not quickly broken! That is often used for marriage, you both and God…will not easily be broken or torn!! Yes, amen!

      1. Lauren G says:

        This verse immediately came to mind for me to. I’m glad you shared it :)

  31. Cee Gee says:

    I lost my comment and out if time so I will try to post again later. I lost the SRT tab while attempting to paste these words from the Toy Story song by Randy Newman:
    Verse 2
    You’ve got a friend in me
    You’ve got a friend in me
    You’ve got troubles, and I’ve got ’em, too
    There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for you
    We stick together and we see it through
    ‘Cause you’ve got a friend in me
    You’ve got a friend in me
    .
    Hope to get back later! ❤

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Funny, I was trying to think of a Christian song about friendship and nothing came to mind!

      1. Indiana Elaine says:

        This song came to mind this morning:
        We Will Stand
        Song by Russ Taff ‧ 1994
        Lyrics

        “… Sometimes it’s hard for me to understand
        Why we pull away from each other so easily
        Even though we’re all walking the same road
        Yet we build dividing walls between
        Our brothers and our selves
        But I, I don’t care what label you may wear if you believe in
        Jesus you belong with me
        The bond we share is all I care to see
        And we can change this world forever if you will join with me
        Join and sing, sing
        You’re my brother, you’re my sister
        So take me by the hand
        Together we will work until
        He comesThere’s no foe that can defeat us
        When we’re walking side by side
        As long as there is love
        We will stand. “

        1. RhondaJ. says:

          Oh that’s good, never heard it! I will look it up!

    2. Mercy says:

      Awww..sweet song..I love your creative suggestion :))

  32. Cheryl Blow says:

    I have had a lot of wise godly counsel from women through my life! So thankful for them!

    I am now at the point where I have a few women that we pray for each other and listen to each other. Most are younger than me but I find so much wisdom in them! I try to not let someone’s age stop me from hearing them!

    The other day my oldest granddaughter spoke some life giving words to me! It meant so much!

    The thing that people seem to need a little of from me is just encouragement that this life with Christ is worth it! There is always a cost but the returns are innumerable! You get up every day no mater how you feel, have your first moments with God, even before your feet hit the floor! Stretch, walk,, take a shower, get dressed and smile! Ask God to show you who you can be a blessing to for the day.

    One foot in front of the other! We are here on purpose for a purpose! Don’t listen to the lies of the enemy that you don’t have any value. We are created in God’s image, that in itself means we have value!

    Sorry for being long! Love you all! Praying for all!

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Amen, so true!! We need to keep encouraging and directing people to God! There is always a cost but so worth it indeed!! We will know more and more the cost in coming months and years, gear up and sharpen your armor! The devil is ramping up all around us!!

  33. Rhonda J. says:

    I love today focus of wise counsel and friendship!! I have always been surrounded by good friends! But having my 13 month older sister has been a constant that I value more than gold! I don’t know what I would do without her. She never has been bossy or prideful, she is humble and always puts herself in their shoes before speaking to someone with advice. Otherwise I have very good mentors at church as far as guiding me in leadership and growth. I have had correction in the past that I got defensive right away, bristling like a porcupine, lol!! Of course, I later see the sin I was in and NEEDED correction. I need to be better at accepting revision. AND I also need to be better in the way I give rectification! (yes I looked up synonyms for corrections haha)
    Before I moved I PRAYED and asked the Lord to give me good, Godly friends, I was amazed how indeed he took me to a small neighborhood and church of just that! Praise God for answered prayers! Ask and you shall receive when Kingdom aligned!

    1. RhondaJ. says:

      It passed ^^^^^

      :)

  34. Sharon Jersey Girl says:

    I do have some wise people in my life, the first being my husband. I can to often jump to conclusions or be judgemental when he often helps to refocus me. I also have three dear friends that I feel, have so much more wisdom than me. But I am willing and ready to learn and accept wisdom from others (most of the time haha) but there are times that I balk at their wisdom which I attribute to pride…always something to work on in our faith walk!

    Have a blessed Tuesday!

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Same SJG, lol! It usually is pride! The “what, ME wrong??!)

  35. Caitlin Williams says:

    I need more friends that I can go to that feel like wise counsel – because right now it feels like the only wise counsel I have is my therapist. Ugh.

  36. Jennifer Jackson says:

    My Wednesday night Bible study group has blessed me so much over the years that we have met. We each have wisdom to share and help each other on our life journey.

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      My small group is amazing as well!! What a blessing life groups are!

    2. Mercy says:

      Amen, I love mine too. Small group is starting soon for us on Monday night and I can’t wait! We bring baked goods and I love baking :))

  37. Norma Nashold says:

    I love those who are wise counselors in my life, they are a necessity and God has blessed me with great friends who will speak truth.
    And sometimes I speak truth to them. Having a community where we can be honest has been so healthy and has brought healing

  38. Tara B says:

    I have 1 friend specifically that comes to mind when I need to really talk about sensitive subjects. She is younger than me (only by a few years) and I believe she is more wise than myself. She listens and gives godly advice. I am very thankful for her.
    The advice I can share to anyone single or in marriage is to put God first. Put family above ourselves. Pray together. Live life together. Seek godly counseI.

  39. Kim J. G. says:

    It’s hard to say if I can really speak up and say “you should….” but what I should say is “I wanted to check in. Have you thought about doing xyz?”
    But to get the opportunity to do that means being intentional about my relationships. I’m guilty of going with the flow, ie what I have time for.

  40. Aimee D-R says:

    Ameb

  41. Searching says:

    Anyone in my life that needs my wisdom, experience or counsel? Not that come to mind, but many need to be saved
    .
    Easy or difficult to go to others for wise counsel? Difficult for me. I only have a couple of people in that role.
    .
    What does it look like to walk with wise people? Who are those people for you?
    As KELLY (NEO) said, they are hard to find – not only wise, but that are trustworthy as well.
    .
    MINDY HENCEY – love that you are prioritizing changing the script as you raise your children. Praying as you model your faith in God, daily Bible study and talk with your children ❤️
    AUDREN PHALEN – Many titles have that effect on me, or I’ll come to a verse in the selected Scriptures that stops me in my tracks. Praying as you work through these feelings and lean on the Lord, that you will find your place and the right people for you in your new location.
    UCOBB – your mom, what a beautiful model of faith ❤️
    DEBBIE HINSON – praise the Lord for the 180° change in your daughter’s life. She has an impactful testimony, a hard fought hallelujah.
    MERCY ❤️ so good, sister. Thank you.
    CINDY HANNA ❤️
    CAITLIN WILLIAMS – praying, sister.
    RHONDA J – praying for your grandson ❤️
    TANYA – praying for Priscilla. I’ve seen families do this before, sad for him as well as her.
    CEE GEE ❤️ that song …
    AIMEE D-R praying for your son to know the truth and love of Jesus.
    KERRY ROWLEY ❤️
    FOSTER MAMA – joining my sisters in prayer for your family, especially your FIL and husband
    GLORIA D – praying for your mom and your family.
    LYNNE FROM AL ❤️ Your phrase ‘my pain is so real’ brought tears this morning, thinking of Jack and of the physical pain of heartbreak. Praying for the Lord’s comfort for you every day.
    CAROLINE BRIDGES ❤️
    LANE BEATTY ❤️
    KELLY (NEO) ❤️
    JUDY ❤️
    ERICA CHIARELLI ❤️

    1. Cheryl Blow says:

      Praying for all!

  42. Kelly (NEO) says:

    On-going association with the wise give me the training and example of how to be wise too. No finding wise people to associate with, that is the challenge.
    .
    The people I consider wise are not in my daily life. They are only a phone call away though. The challenge for me is to actually call them when needing input. It can be hard to know when to lean in and wait for the Spirit to guide me or to seek input from wise people. I suppose they work together when the wise person is submitted to the Lord. It’s a struggle.
    .
    I have several young gals that I work with that it is a joy to be the one they come to with questions/advise. And they often are wiser than they think they are so our conversations bless me too.
    .
    MARGARET W – thankful the Judy’s recover is moving in the right direction
    .
    TANYA – praying you can help Priscilla see the Lord is with her and has not abandoned her.
    .
    FOSTER MAMA – praying the Lord will draw your FIL to Himself as he faces death. May your FIL come to saving faith. Keep shining your light in the dark.

    1. Cee Gee says:

      So true, Kelly!❤

    2. Cheryl Blow says:

      Praying

    3. Mercy says:

      Very true. I relate to every single thing you said.

  43. Danielle B says:

    To walk with the wise is to grow in wisdom. My circle of wise people is smaller than I’d like. God has been showing me to turn to Him more and rely on Him. Over a year ago He took away a group of friends, I spent a lot of time with, but didn’t grow me. A hard season, but a good season. The hard part in seeking wise counsel for me is in who to go more than the going. I have a few I reach out to when it is needed.

  44. Amy Jane says:

    ❤️

  45. Sandi says:

    My wise friend led me to the LORD then mentored me…in cooking and being a proverbs 31 woman.

    1. Cheryl Blow says:

      Love this!

      1. Sandi says:

        Me too

  46. Jessica Thomas says:

    A while back I made the decision to immerse myself in the Lord everyday as opposed to 2 hours on a Sunday. I have spent more time connecting within my church and the cousel and friendship I have gained has brought me joy. I have a greater sense of belonging whereas my existing friendship group had goals and aspirations which at times can differ from my own! I thank Jesus for the friends he has put in my life, new AND old.

    1. Kari Jae says:

      I love this!

  47. Nicole Tufts says:

    It means surrounding myself with people who will give me hard biblical truth and not just agree with me all the time. It’s easy for me to go to people for help. It’s not always easy to hear if counsel is in opposition of me. No, I don’t feel like people come to me for advice outside of work.

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Great answer Nicole, as far as people that give BIBLICAL wisdom and correction when needed!! Those are the good ones and so important for every Christian to have! No one really likes correction, but it is a blessing when we humble ourselves!

    2. Cheryl Blow says:

      Amen!