What does the Bible say about giving advice?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that wise advice begins with fearing the Lord, seeking His wisdom, and humbly receiving correction rather than trusting ourselves. Proverbs 3:5-6 calls believers to trust God wholeheartedly, while James 1:5 assures us that He generously gives wisdom to those who ask. Good counsel is marked by purity, peace, gentleness, mercy, and sincerity, as James 3:17 teaches, and it judges rightly rather than by outward appearances (John 7:24). Proverbs repeatedly commends listening to counsel and instruction, recognizing that human plans are subject to God’s sovereign direction (Proverbs 19:20; 16:9). Those who advise others should do so faithfully and responsibly, remembering that greater stewardship brings greater accountability (Luke 12:48).
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 3:5-6 4 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.
- John 7:24 4 votes
Don't judge according to appearance, but judge righteous judgment."
- James 1:5 3 votes
But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach; and it will be given to him.
- Isaiah 41:10 3 votes
Don't you be afraid, for I am with you; don't be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you; yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.
- Proverbs 16:9 3 votes
A man's heart plans his course, But Yahweh directs his steps.
- James 3:17 3 votes
But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceful, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
- Luke 12:48 2 votes
but he who didn't know, and did things worthy of stripes, will be beaten with few stripes. To whoever much is given, of him will much be required; and to whom much was entrusted, of him more will be asked.
- Ecclesiastes 4:13 2 votes
Better is a poor and wise youth than an old and foolish king who doesn't know how to receive admonition any more.
- Proverbs 1:7 2 votes
The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of knowledge; But the foolish despise wisdom and instruction.
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