What does the Bible say about advice?
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The Bible teaches that wise advice is received humbly, tested carefully, and given in words that build others up under the fear of the Lord. Proverbs commends listening to counsel, since those who reject it trust their own judgment, while safety and success often come through many wise advisers (Proverbs 19:20; 12:15; 11:14; 24:6). Yet believers must not be gullible, but should discern advice by God’s truth and seek direction by trusting the Lord rather than leaning on personal understanding (Proverbs 14:15; 3:5-6). Godly counsel begins with reverence for him (Proverbs 1:7), avoids Rehoboam’s prideful rejection of wise elders (1 Kings 12:6-8), and speaks grace that strengthens others (Ephesians 4:29; 6:4).
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Proverbs 19:20 4 votes
Listen to counsel and receive instruction, That you may be wise in your latter end.
- Proverbs 12:15 3 votes
The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, But he who is wise listens to counsel.
- Proverbs 11:14 3 votes
Where there is no wise guidance, the nation falls, But in the multitude of counselors there is victory.
- Proverbs 24:6 3 votes
For by wise guidance you wage your war; And victory is in many advisors.
- Proverbs 3:5-6 3 votes
[5] Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, And don't lean on your own understanding. [6] In all your ways acknowledge him, And he will direct your paths.
- Ephesians 4:29 2 votes
Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as is good for building up as the need may be, that it may give grace to those who hear.
- Proverbs 14:15 2 votes
A simple man believes everything, But the prudent man carefully considers his ways.
- Proverbs 1:7 2 votes
The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of knowledge; But the foolish despise wisdom and instruction.
- 1 Kings 12:6-8 2 votes
[6] King Rehoboam took counsel with the old men, who had stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, saying, What counsel give you me to return answer to this people? [7] They spoke to him, saying, If you will be a servant to this people this day, and will serve them, and answer them, and speak good words to them, then they will be your servants forever. [8] But he forsook the counsel of the old men which they had given him, and took counsel with the young men who had grown up with him, who stood before him.
- Ephesians 6:4 2 votes
You fathers, don't provoke your children to wrath, but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
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