The people we choose to surround our lives with who will give us counsel and provide direction is an important decision to make. If we are insulated by the words and impressions of foolish people, we will be led away into error. This applies to all relationships and positions of authority. Proverbs 25 offers us insight into what this means.
Surrounding ourselves with people of wisdom and honesty is a safeguard. If we discover someone is not wise and honest, we don’t throw them away, but we must remove them from a place of authority in our lives. We are the only one who can make such a decision. It requires setting just boundaries that must be in place for our protection, “Remove the wicked from the king’s court, and his reign will be made secure by justice” (vs. 5).
If we have allowed ourselves to be insulated by people who fail to tell us the truth when we need it most, they will bring a wrong spirit into the relationship. They will not revive our spirits when we are down, “Trustworthy messengers refresh like snow in summer. They revive the spirit of their employer” (vs.13).
Unwarranted praise of our life is like overeating and gorging ourselves. “Do you like honey? Don’t eat too much, or it will make you sick!” (vs.16) To surround ourselves with people who will hold us to a diet of integrity will keep our spirit fit when the temptations of life come and invite us to a meal that will be harmful to our spiritual life.
Just this am I was shepherding a female friend on this topic.
I so appreciate when Father leads you in an expression of truth which then allows me to receive encouragement and aligns me with fortitude to confirm the path I was on.
I also spoke of a sadness over how few prophetic type persons are authentic I am so nurtured by your gifted insight and sharing .
Thank you much
Suzon