"Where there is no guidance the people fall,
But in abundance of counselors there is victory." (Prov. 11:14)
The absence of guidance in the life of people or communities, whether that be the family, a classroom, a neighborhood, or a nation, prepares them for a descent from that which is ideal: a platform for concerted, wisdom-driven success. It leads into a downward spiral of disarray, despair, depression, and defeat. As some might say, "Epic fail."
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A "Bay of Pigs" Strategy
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A military unit entering battle without a lead officer, a pointman, guiding the mission is sure to fail; as is one lacking clear direction. Success in the spirit-filled life is no less different and requires a "clear and present" guidance in order to secure victory.
When I shun the guidance of God's Word, put away godly, biblical counsel, or ignore the promptings of the Holy Spirit, I am guranteed to fall. In fact, "when pride comes, then comes dishonor" (Prov. 11:2). Dishonor encompasses a failure that in most cases is preventable, if only one would heed direction and wisdom.
Not only is true success marked by wise counsel, it is also driven by right counsel. If I surround myself with fools and ask them for direction or advice, then I should expect failure. However, if I surround myself with those whose wise counsel come from integrity (ideally spiritual, biblical counsel), and heed it as that which is for my good, then success is closer. It doesn't mean that there won't be bumps along the way, but in the end there is victory.
Ultimately, a life hidden in Christ, indwelt by the Spirit, and led by the wisdom of God's Word as empowered by the gospel is a victorious life. But that's the beginning and the end of the journey. How will you choose to live in the middle?
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