Consequences
“Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.” — Proverbs 15:22, ESV
Some time ago, I made changes to my computer setup without realizing the impact it would have on my body. Unknowingly, I altered the ergonomic position of my workstation, and it took about six months before I began feeling pain throughout my body. For a while, I couldn’t understand what was causing the discomfort. But during a visit to my doctor, we discussed any recent changes I had made—and that’s when we discovered the culprit: my workstation adjustments.
My doctor referred me to physical therapy, where I was given specific exercises to help correct the problem. I also had to readjust my setup to support a healthier posture.
During that time, the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart: “When you adjusted your workstation, you didn’t realize the consequences that would come with that adjustment. Your intentions were good, but good intentions still brought you pain.”
He continued: “It’s the same in the world. When individuals go against My will—even with good intentions—they still suffer the consequences of their actions. People often wonder why a good God would allow suffering. But many of these hardships result not from a lack of God’s love or care, but from the choices people make.”
God expressed this to Israel in Hosea 4:6:
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because you have rejected knowledge, I reject you from being a priest to me. And since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.”
When we ignore God’s commands or fail to seek understanding, we open ourselves up to consequences. I’m reminded of the story of Jephthah in the Bible. He made a vow to the Lord, saying:
“If you give the Ammonites into my hands, whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the Lord’s, and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering.”
—Judges 11:30–31, ESV
When Jephthah returned home, his only child—a daughter—came out to greet him. Scripture is unclear whether he fulfilled his vow through an actual sacrifice, which would have contradicted God’s law. Still, his impulsive promise brought unimaginable consequences.
A personal example also comes to mind. When my husband and I were younger, we bought a duplex. We lived in one unit and rented out the other. Later, we decided to sell the property and buy a house. What we didn’t realize was that because part of the property had been used as a rental, we were required to pay capital gains tax—a costly mistake we hadn’t anticipated. Although we were faithfully serving God, we failed to seek wise counsel before making that decision, and we paid the price.
As Scripture reminds us:
“Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.” —Proverbs 15:22, ESV
And also:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” —James 1:5, ESV
God promises to instruct and guide those who trust in Him. When we seek first the kingdom of God, lean not on our own understanding, and acknowledge Him in all our ways, He will direct our paths (Proverbs 3:5–6). He is our Shepherd, and as we submit to Him, He will faithfully guide His sheep.
Key Takeaways:
It is imperative to obey God and seek His counsel.
God will lead us to wise advisers when we ask for His help.
Be cautious when making vows—they can carry significant consequences.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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