Together in Christ: 'The Counsel of a Friend' — Proverbs 27:9

Tuesday, January 31, 2023

The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense.

— Proverbs 27:9 NLT

Key Thought

Some people are know-it-alls who constantly give their advice to others. Our proverb today is not praising that kind of person. Heartfelt counsel comes from a listening ear and a heart full of empathy. Such a person is "quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry." [1] They are the type of person who joins their heart with another as they weave their friendship together with the Lord as their third strand in a strong cord of love and grace. [2] To be qualified to offer this "heartfelt counsel," a friend needs to have demonstrated they are there for the other person regardless of the difficulties life brings. [3] When we are this kind friend, we can bring a precious gift to them with our words that bring them life — words that are "as sweet as perfume and incense." [4]

[1] James 1:19.
[2] Ecclesiastes 4:9-12.
[3] Proverbs 18:24; Galatians 6:2-3.
[4] Proverbs 10:11, 15:4.

Today's Prayer

My Father and God, please mold me to be like Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit so my words will bring life to those I love. Dear Jesus, help me more like you as I seek to listen fully to others and then speak your love and grace into their lives and encourage them in their walk with you. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Job 4:3-4, 16:2-6
  • 1 Thessalonians 4:13, 5:11; Romans 12:8

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About This Devotional

Together in Christ is a daily devotional that focuses on what Scripture teaches about godly living in relationships.

'Together in Christ' is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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