A Few Good Counselees
Parents play pivotal roles in the lives of their children. However, one role that never cease no matter how old the child becomes is that of a counselor. Parents are not the only ones that can give counsel. There are those who may be qualified in specific areas that can contribute significantly to our lives. Whether one agrees with the counsel or not, they can’t deny the counselor’s experience. In these times of moral and economic upheaval, the counselors may be looking for “a few good counselees,” are you available?
The “I know all” stance that has become too prominent in the post-modern mind is lethal. It is an intellectual self-sufficiency that rejects theoretical and practical contemplations other than its’ own. Whether one posses mental prowess or not, that is beside the point. Whether one is considered a fool or an intellectual, both can proclaim to know all, yet both are susceptible to erroneous ideologies and or actions. Since infallibility is a common denominator among mankind, there is a dire need of counsel.
The words of the wise man simmer like ice cold water on the desert floor when he writes: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Prov. 15:22 NIV). No matter what version one reads this in—I for one read nine of them—it is impossible to miss-understand the verse. It is a formula for success that is vital for any endeavor; “if you don’t get advice, you will fail. “
A juxtaposition of the two sections of the verse ([a] “plans fail for lack of counsel” and [b] “but with many advisers they succeed”) shows two things[1]. In order for one to be successful there must be יוֹעֲצִ [ya`ats counselors]. The wise man is declaring the need for many advisers and thus giving the advisee multiple perspectives. The many, is not defined and so it leaves the amount of perspectives limitless. The verse does not say what one is to do with the counsels, just that a large amount is beneficial if success is the goal.
On the other hand, the analysis shows that one who does not have counsel will reap a harvest of הָפֵר [parar]. Parar is the Hebrew word use here to describe the result of plans with no counselors. It means, “Break, destroy, frustrate, invalidate”[2].
Not all counsel is worthy of application, but they all deserve a hearing. Our finiteness limits us in all categories, but if we work together, things can turn out for the best. Ultimately, the counselor that will not fail is Jesus Christ. He should be the One that is above all else. He is never too busy for an appointment. Are you in need of counsel? Choose wisely.
