Where should a Christian seek solid, scripture-based life advice?
Introduction
Life is complex, and the choices we face—from career and finance to relationships and ministry—can be overwhelming. The human heart, as we have discussed, is deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9), meaning we cannot rely solely on our feelings. Therefore, the Christian must proactively seek external, reliable wisdom that is anchored in the infallible truth of God.
The source of that wisdom is not a single person, but a system of accountability built around the Word of God.
Main: Three Primary Sources of Scripture-Based Advice
A Christian should always test every piece of advice against the authoritative source, then seek assistance from trusted messengers.
1. The Ultimate Source: The Word of God
The first and highest authority for any life decision must be the Bible itself. All human advice is fallible; only Scripture is perfect.
The Foundation of Truth: The Bible is perfectly equipped to guide us: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
The First Step: Before going to any person, a Christian should go to the Bible. Search for clear principles, commands, and examples related to the specific issue (e.g., if it is a finance question, look at Proverbs and the parables of Jesus). If the Bible speaks clearly, the matter is settled.
2. Accountable Leadership: Pastors and Elders
God has placed shepherds within the local church community specifically to guide and protect the flock from error and worldliness.
Shepherds and Overseers: Pastors, elders, and spiritual leaders in a healthy, Bible-believing church are called to "shepherd the flock of God that is among you" (1 Peter 5:2). They are accountable to God and one another for the counsel they provide.
The Benefit of Office: These individuals are often formally trained in theology, regularly study Scripture, and are equipped to apply biblical truth to complex situations. They provide counsel that is based on the whole of Scripture, not just a single verse taken out of context.
3. Trusted Mentors: Mature, Godly Believers
Beyond formal leadership, Christians need informal, one-on-one relationships with others who are ahead of them on the spiritual path.
The Council of the Righteous: The Old Testament affirms the value of wise community: “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). Look for mentors who meet the biblical qualifications for a godly life—people who are:
Spiritually Mature: They have walked with Christ for a long time and demonstrated perseverance.
Humble and Teachable: They admit their own failures and counsel with grace, not arrogance.
Biblically Literate: They do not offer advice based on feelings, but can articulate the biblical principle behind their wisdom.
The Warning of the Ungodly: Conversely, the Christian is warned against seeking advice from those who reject God’s truth: “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners” (Psalm 1:1).
Conclusion
Never take any human advice—even from a pastor or mentor—as absolute truth without testing it against the final authority of Scripture.
Seek out the Bible first. Then, find your counsel from those who demonstrate humility and holiness and who are committed to applying God's inspired Word to your specific life situation. That combination is the surest path to wisdom.
