The Men of Iron Minute
by Chad Zueck | Director of Content Creation
Spiritual Advice in a World of Skeptical Adversaries
Samuel’s run as Israel’s judge was about to end. He served the Lord faithfully for his whole life, and now the people demand a king to rule over them. Perhaps it was Samuel’s boldness or his sons’ shadiness; we will not know for certain, but we know they are blinded by envy and jealousy, which spills out as they demand a king “like the other nations.” Perhaps one of Samuel’s most difficult tasks would be in this moment. Like a good man, Samuel explains in divine detail what this means. They will lose their sons and daughters, legacy and livelihood, and massive wealth as the king will “lord” over them. Blinded by pride and hubris, they stubbornly rebuff the warning, refuse to listen to Samuel, and say, “We want a king over us. 20 Then we will be like all the other nations, with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles.” 1 Samuel 8:19-20, NIV84
It’s surreal to read it so many years later, and it’s also very familiar. We receive sound advice and hasten to listen to it… to our shame and demise. It’s one thing to get good advice, and it’s another to use it for your good and God’s glory. We may not be turning over a leadership structure, but we are always in situations to hear or share advice. How can you trust the advice you’re being given, and how can you trust the person offering the advice? Proper mentorship rides on this rail.
Below are some characteristics of someone to seek out for guidance and wise counsel:
- Genuinely concerned for you and either knows or is willing to learn about your background.
- Known to be biblically sound, spiritually mature, and aware of their own blind spots.
- Skilled at listening and asking good questions.
- Somewhat experienced, knowledgeable, or trained in the area you are seeking guidance.
- Exercises confidentiality and uses discretion.
- Exemplifies humility and gentleness yet loves you enough to tell you the truth or where you may be interpreting situations in error (even if it hurts).
- Provides an honest opinion and is direct when necessary.
- Able to be objective in the situation.[1]
Be a mentor.
Find a mentor.
Be a better man.
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[1]https://accounseling.org/spiritualgrowth/decisionmaking/biblical-decision-making-principles-wise-counsel