Looking for Help – Seeking Wisdom and Guidance in Relationships

By: AJ Dumpasan

Opening Scripture and Reflection

• Scripture Reading: Proverbs 11:14 – “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.”
• Reflect on the importance of seeking guidance from wise and spiritually grounded individuals in life’s significant decisions, including marriage.

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Key Themes

1. Youth Need the Wisdom of Age and Experience
   • Emphasize the value of seeking advice from elders, parents, or spiritual leaders.
   • Quote: “The matured judgment of parents should be valued” (Section 4).
   • Encourage young people to trust the insights of those who have experienced life’s challenges and blessings.
2. Seeking God’s Guidance
   • Stress the necessity of prayer and divine guidance in choosing a life partner.
   • Reflect on Psalm 32:8 – “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.”
   • Teach that true wisdom comes from aligning one’s decisions with God’s Word.
3. The Role of Parents
   • Highlight the scriptural example of Isaac and Rebekah (Genesis 24).
   • Discuss how parental involvement can provide valuable support in ensuring a wise and spiritually aligned decision.
4. Recognizing Red Flags
   • Quote: “Have I made the right choice?” (Section 4).
   • Teach young people to evaluate their relationships critically and honestly, avoiding hasty or emotional decisions.
   • Reference Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”

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Practical Guidance

1. Questions to Consider
   • Discuss practical questions individuals should ask when evaluating a potential partner:
     • Is this person aligned with my spiritual values?
     • Do they respect my family and mentors?
     • Will they support my walk with Christ?
2. Encouragement for Parents
   • Encourage parents to actively guide their children with love, wisdom, and patience.
   • Teach that parents are called to help direct their children without being overbearing.
3. The Role of the Community
   • Highlight the importance of spiritual mentors and church leaders in guiding relationships.
   • Encourage young people to seek counsel from those who live faithfully and can offer sound, biblical advice.

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Interactive Discussion or Activity

• Organize a panel of seasoned married couples or spiritual mentors to share their insights on seeking guidance in relationships.
• Allow for questions from the audience to promote engagement and real-life application.

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Closing

• Reinforce the importance of trusting God and seeking wise counsel in all decisions, especially in relationships.
• Close with a prayer for guidance and wisdom for all individuals, families, and young people in the church.

This continuation addresses the importance of seeking help and counsel in making relational decisions, with actionable insights and interactive suggestions for a church audience. Let me know if you’d like further development!