In the biblical context, "advice" refers to guidance or counsel given to individuals or groups, often with the intention of helping them make wise decisions or follow a righteous path. The Bible contains numerous instances where advice is given, both from divine sources and human counselors, highlighting its importance in the life of believers.

Divine Advice

God's advice is often conveyed through His commandments, prophets, and the teachings of Jesus Christ. In the Old Testament, the wisdom literature, particularly the Book of Proverbs, is replete with divine advice. Proverbs 12:15 states, "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to counsel." This verse underscores the value of heeding advice and the folly of self-reliance without seeking guidance.

The Psalms also reflect the importance of divine advice. Psalm 32:8 declares, "I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you." Here, God promises His guidance to those who seek Him, emphasizing His role as the ultimate advisor.

Human Advice

The Bible also records instances of human advice, which can be either wise or foolish. The account of Rehoboam, Solomon's son, illustrates the consequences of ignoring wise counsel. In 1 Kings 12:6-11, Rehoboam rejects the advice of the elders who served his father and instead follows the counsel of his peers, leading to the division of the kingdom. This narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of discerning the quality of advice.

Conversely, the advice of Jethro to Moses in Exodus 18:17-24 is an example of wise counsel. Jethro advises Moses to delegate responsibilities to capable men to avoid burnout, which Moses implements successfully. This account highlights the value of practical and godly advice in leadership and administration.

Advice in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the teachings of Jesus and the apostles provide foundational advice for Christian living. Jesus' Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is a comprehensive guide to righteous living, offering advice on various aspects of life, including relationships, prayer, and priorities.

The apostle Paul frequently offers advice to the early churches through his epistles. In Ephesians 5:15-16 , Paul advises, "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." Paul's letters are filled with practical advice aimed at helping believers navigate their faith in a challenging world.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is also a source of divine advice for believers. Jesus promised the Holy Spirit as a Counselor to guide His followers into all truth. In John 14:26 , Jesus says, "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you." The Holy Spirit's role as an advisor is crucial for Christians seeking to understand and apply God's will in their lives.

Conclusion

The concept of advice in the Bible is multifaceted, encompassing divine guidance, human counsel, and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. Whether through the wisdom of Proverbs, the teachings of Jesus, or the counsel of the apostles, the Bible emphasizes the importance of seeking and heeding advice that aligns with God's will.