Definition and Overview:
Misguided counsel refers to advice or guidance that leads individuals away from God's will, often resulting in negative consequences. This type of counsel can stem from ignorance, selfish motives, or a lack of spiritual discernment. The Bible provides numerous examples and warnings against following such counsel, emphasizing the importance of seeking wisdom from God and His Word.

Biblical Examples:

1. Rehoboam's Folly (1 Kings 12:1-19):
Rehoboam, son of Solomon, sought counsel on how to address the grievances of the Israelites. The elders advised him to serve the people and speak kindly to them, but Rehoboam rejected their counsel. Instead, he followed the advice of the young men he grew up with, who suggested he increase the people's burdens. This misguided counsel led to the division of the kingdom. The Berean Standard Bible states, "But Rehoboam rejected the advice of the elders and consulted the young men who had grown up with him and were serving him" (1 Kings 12:8).

2. Job's Friends (Job 4-27):
Job's friends, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, offered misguided counsel during his suffering. They insisted that Job's afflictions were due to his sin, failing to understand the true nature of his trials. Their advice was based on a limited understanding of God's justice and character. God later rebuked them, saying, "You have not spoken the truth about Me, as My servant Job has" (Job 42:7).

3. Ahithophel's Betrayal (2 Samuel 15-17):
Ahithophel was a trusted advisor to King David but later sided with Absalom during his rebellion. His counsel to Absalom was initially considered wise, yet it was ultimately misguided as it opposed God's anointed king. Hushai, another advisor, provided counsel that thwarted Ahithophel's plans, leading to Absalom's downfall. "For the LORD had purposed to thwart the good counsel of Ahithophel in order to bring disaster on Absalom" (2 Samuel 17:14).

Warnings Against Misguided Counsel:

1. Psalm 1:1-2:
The psalmist warns against walking in the counsel of the wicked, highlighting the blessedness of delighting in the law of the Lord. "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. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night" (Psalm 1:1-2).

2. Proverbs 12:15:
The book of Proverbs frequently contrasts wise and foolish counsel. "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to counsel" (Proverbs 12:15). This verse underscores the importance of humility and seeking godly wisdom.

3. Proverbs 19:20-21:
These verses emphasize the value of listening to advice and accepting instruction to gain wisdom. "Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days. Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail" (Proverbs 19:20-21).

Principles for Seeking Godly Counsel:

1. Seek Counsel from Godly Sources:
The Bible encourages believers to seek advice from those who fear the Lord and have a deep understanding of His Word. "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety" (Proverbs 11:14).

2. Discernment Through Prayer and Scripture:
Believers are urged to pray for discernment and to measure all counsel against the truth of Scripture. "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him" (James 1:5).

3. The Role of the Holy Spirit:
The Holy Spirit guides believers into all truth, helping them discern between godly and misguided counsel. "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth" (John 16:13).

Misguided counsel can lead to spiritual and practical pitfalls, but by seeking wisdom from God and His Word, believers can navigate life's challenges with discernment and faithfulness.