The concept of "The Friends' Counsel" in the Bible refers to the advice, guidance, and influence that friends provide to one another. This theme is woven throughout Scripture, highlighting both the positive and negative impacts that friends can have on an individual's life. The Bible offers numerous examples and teachings on the importance of choosing friends wisely and the value of godly counsel.

Biblical Examples and Teachings

1. Jonathan and David: One of the most notable examples of friendship in the Bible is the relationship between Jonathan and David. Their friendship is marked by loyalty, love, and mutual support. In 1 Samuel 18:1-4, Jonathan makes a covenant with David, demonstrating his commitment and counsel. Jonathan's support is crucial for David, especially when Saul seeks to harm him. This friendship exemplifies the positive influence and counsel that a godly friend can provide.

2. Job's Friends: The Book of Job presents a contrasting example of friends' counsel. Job's friends, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, initially come to comfort him in his suffering. However, their counsel quickly turns accusatory, as they insist that Job's suffering must be due to his sin (Job 4-25). Their failure to provide true comfort and understanding highlights the potential harm of misguided counsel.

3. Proverbs on Friendship: The Book of Proverbs offers wisdom on the nature of friendship and the importance of wise counsel. Proverbs 27:9 states, "Oil and incense bring joy to the heart, and the sweetness of a friend is counsel to the soul." This verse underscores the value of a friend's counsel as a source of joy and guidance. Additionally, Proverbs 13:20 warns, "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm," emphasizing the importance of choosing friends who offer godly wisdom.

4. Jesus and His Disciples: Jesus' relationship with His disciples also provides insight into the role of friends' counsel. Jesus refers to His disciples as friends in John 15:15, saying, "No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not understand what his master is doing. But I have called you friends, because everything I have learned from My Father I have made known to you." Jesus' counsel to His disciples is rooted in love and truth, guiding them in their spiritual journey.

5. Paul and His Companions: The Apostle Paul often relied on the counsel and support of his friends and fellow workers in the ministry. In Acts 19:31, some of Paul's friends, who were officials of the province of Asia, sent him a message urging him not to venture into the theater, demonstrating their concern and protective counsel. Paul's letters frequently mention his companions, such as Timothy, Titus, and Silas, who provided encouragement and assistance in his missionary work.

The Role of Friends' Counsel in Christian Life

The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of seeking and providing godly counsel among friends. True friends offer guidance that aligns with biblical principles, encouraging one another to grow in faith and righteousness. The counsel of friends should be rooted in love, truth, and a desire to see each other flourish in their walk with God. As believers, it is essential to cultivate friendships that reflect these values, ensuring that the counsel we give and receive is pleasing to the Lord.