How often do we intentionally seek advice from others? I was stunned recently by a comment on a social media feed. Following the recommendation of a book about better ways to communicate in marriage, someone commented, “If you have to read a book about love then it’s not love.”
I couldn’t disagree more. It is profoundly wise to seek the input of others as we navigate our way through life. After spending thousands of hours counseling individuals and couples as a military chaplain, I can assure you that we all need wisdom about healthy relationships once in a while.
Proverbs 11:14 notes “There is safety in a multitude of counselors.” I am so grateful that God has blessed us with amazing staff members at Hope Haven Rwanda. I firmly believe the “safety” we have experienced during the last ten years is a result of seeking wisdom from a wide variety of counselors.
For example, Liz was a leader on campus from “Day One,” as they say in Rwanda. When she showed up on the site in April 2012, it was “just bush.” Her first stop, accompanied by Susan Hollern and Nate Kempton, was to meet with the local leaders. The team was seeking wisdom from local counselors.
Liz recounted, “We told them that we are here to work with you, and we want to know what your greatest need is. They said the first need was education, the second was a new road, and then water, and then electricity.”
She continued, “We told them we would like to start a school, but didn’t have anything to start a school. They said it was okay. Even if kids sit on the ground, you should start a school. We have kids on the street and we need your help. We said, ‘Okay, we will do that.’ The turnout on the first day was 97 kids.”
At the beginning, Liz frequently asked others for their input, seeking their wisdom. As she matured, she became the one others often come to for advice.
We all need wisdom from trusted counselors to accomplish this vast mission. None of us can do it alone! Why not reach out to a trusted mentor this week and add some more “safety” to your life?