By Brooke Holt
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding, which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you. Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the Lord. Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!” (Psalm 32:8–11)
People are looking for answers these days, because our fallen world provokes many hard questions. We need guidance, comfort, and direction to live faithfully in these difficult days. Where can we find wisdom? Thankfully, God has raised up godly counselors to teach us. Please know that I am a big fan of godly counselors! However, there is another counselor that we far too often forget.
As David brings this psalm to a close, he reminds us of the greatest counselor ever—the Lord himself. Throughout this psalm, David has wrestled with his sin and felt the tremendous weight of that sin. But he found much-needed comfort and relief in his repentance. As the burden of sin and guilt were lifted from David, he found safety and protection for his soul. Even more—he found joy in God’s presence once again.
David’s words take us even deeper into what it means to enjoy a relationship with the living God. The Lord is eager to instruct us in his ways. He is ready to hear us when we cry, meet us in our pain, and lead us into his will and way. How comforting it is to know that his eye will never leave us! The Lord is ever-present, all-knowing, and all-powerful. He is our perfect counselor, and he always has a perfect plan for his children.
Do you believe that God is the greatest counselor for you? Do you come to him with all your needs, doubts, fears, and brokenness? Do you listen for his words and align your life to his will?
David warns us of the stubbornness of our human flesh and will. He spoke in terms more familiar to the people of his day, but we can certainly understand: Don’t be like a horse or mule. Instead, use the mind that God entrusted to you, heed the Spirit that has been implanted within you, and receive the wisdom that has been given to transform you. As your perfect counselor, God will faithfully teach you, guide you, and counsel you in all the craziness of this world.
Your perfect counselor loves you with a steadfast love (v. 10). His love surrounds you and will never, ever let you go. You can make an appointment with him daily to care for your soul (Hebrews 4:16). His office is always open! Are you meeting with him today?
Reflection:
Have you thought of God as your counselor? What habits does he prescribe to heal your soul and strengthen your faith? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Related Resource:
Jesus calls the Holy Spirit a "gift" who will guide us, lead us, and empower us. Yet many believers don't experience the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives. This unique Christian small group Bible study provides a space in which we can explore what it truly means to "walk in the Spirit" on a daily basis. The Spirit-Filled Life small group curriculum centers on a 6-part video teaching series examining the life-giving and creative work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Begin to experience the gift today!
Comments will be approved before showing up.