“In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will…” (Ephesians 1:11)
“The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of his heart to all generations.” (Psalm 33:10–11)
I am rather fond of books, but I am fonder of the authors. When I turn to some tome or other I am usually in need of some wisdom from someone who is trustworthy. The shelves which stand sentry around my study are lined with a great cloud of witnesses, a treasury of the wise throughout the ages. Rather than assuming that the modern day is the absolute highpoint of theology (it isn’t), great riches are to be found in long dead authors who spent lives in contemplation of the living God. Since God is eternal, those who write about him are of ongoing relevance.
There is a danger in not seeking the wisdom of others, as the book of Proverbs is quick to point out: “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). Going it alone in the spiritual realm is a hazardous path, and if you are not careful you find that it is not so much God you believe in. It is yourself.
For God, though, the story is rather different. Who might offer him counsel? Who would presume to take God to one side and offer a gentle piece of advice? He acts on his own advice, and gives his own counsel. He does not rely on others when he acts, nor is his course swerved by events. Rather God acts as he wills.
This gives us a God who is reliable and trustworthy, not swayed by first one adviser and then another. God acts according to his own nature, and is dependable. A solid rock on which to stand.
