His Counsel In Real Time
Quiet moment with the word and a clear glass of water, a picture of letting the Spirit filter the counsel we receive.
Devotional Credit: Day by Day by Grace by Bob Hoekstra
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Isaiah gives a clear warning about where we look for guidance. Some of Israel ran to Egypt for help, quick plans, and human strategies. The Lord called it counsel that was not from Him. Bob Hoekstra’s devotional brings that warning close to home with a gentle reminder. Grace looks to the Lord for wisdom, and that wisdom comes by His Spirit through His word.
I feel the tug of other voices. Articles promise hacks, podcasts offer hot takes, and friends share what worked for them. None of that is evil by itself. The danger comes when those voices replace the living counsel of God. Hoekstra points me to the One who is wonderful in counsel and excellent in guidance. Jesus is not just a relief for a guilty conscience. He is a present, loving Lord who leads.
The Lord’s counsel is not vague. He speaks through Scripture. He frames our steps with His promises. He steadies our motives. He invites us to ask, what does the word say, and how does the Holy Spirit apply it in this moment. When His testimonies become our delight, they become our counselors.
So here is the invitation for today. Let the Holy Spirit set the tone before the calendar does. Open the Bible. Ask the Lord to apply what you read to the choices in front of you. Trust that He is near, wise, and ready to lead. That is the grace way, and it brings a steady heart.
Journal Entry – Voice of the Holy Spirit Through Scripture
I am your Counselor. I give you wisdom and revelation to know the Lord Jesus. My guidance is wonderful and excellent. I am present to teach you through the word, and I make His testimonies your delight and your counselors.
Do not run to Egypt for help. Do not devise plans without Me. I lead the sons and daughters of God. I take what belongs to Christ and make it known to you. I cause the word of the Messiah to dwell in you richly. As you yield, I direct your steps in righteousness and peace.
I remind you that you died with Christ to the basic principles of the world. Live as one who is new. Trust in the Lord with all your heart. In all your ways acknowledge Him. I make your paths straight. I equip you for every good work by the Scriptures I inspired. Keep your eyes on Jesus. I will guide you into all the truth, and I will give you clarity to refuse counsel that only sounds wise.
Scripture references: Ephesians 1:17, Isaiah 28:29, Psalm 119:24, Isaiah 30:1 to 2, Isaiah 31:1, Romans 8:14, John 16:13 to 15, Colossians 3:16, Colossians 2:20, Galatians 2:20, Romans 6:11, Proverbs 3:5 to 6, 2 Timothy 3:16 to 17, Hebrews 12:2.
Real-Life Analogy
Picture a kitchen water filter. You pour from the tap, the cartridge quietly removes what does not belong, and you drink without worry. Letting the Spirit of Jesus guide you works like that. As you bring ideas, advice, and options to Him, He filters what is unhelpful and lets through what is clean and life giving.
Try this today. Before a meeting or a big decision, pause with the verse you just read still in mind. Pray, Lord, I trust You to sift what I hear and to express Your wisdom through me as I choose what to do next. Then move forward expecting clarity, calm, and honest words.
Prayer of Confidence
Father, thank You that in Jesus I have a Wonderful Counselor. Thank You for Your word that instructs me, and for Your Spirit who applies it to my steps. I receive this day as a place to walk from Your counsel, not from pressure. Your wisdom is available, Your guidance is kind, and Your presence is enough. Lord, I trust You to center my attention on Your voice and to work through me in every decision.