What does the Bible say about giving unsolicited advice?

We’ve all experienced it—unsolicited advice from well-meaning friends, family members, or even strangers. While the intention behind such advice is often good, it can sometimes feel intrusive or unwanted. The Bible provides guidance on this delicate matter, helping us understand when and how to offer advice without overstepping boundaries.

The Way of a Fool

• Proverbs 12:15: “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who listens to counsel is wise.”
• The Wisdom of Listening:
  • This verse highlights the importance of humility and wisdom in the context of advice.
  • It contrasts the fool, who believes his way is always right, with the wise individual who actively listens to counsel.
  • Offering unsolicited advice can sometimes reflect a lack of humility, as it assumes that our way is the only right way.

A Fool Utters All His Mind

• Proverbs 29:11: “A fool vents all of his anger, but a wise man brings himself under control.”
• Exercising Self-Control:
  • This verse underscores the value of self-control and restraint in communication.
  • A fool is quick to vent emotions and opinions, often without considering the impact of their words.
  • When considering offering unsolicited advice, it’s essential to exercise self-control and ensure our words are guided by wisdom and love.

A Man of Understanding is of a Calm Spirit

• Proverbs 17:27: “He who has knowledge spares his words. A man of understanding is of a calm spirit.”
• The Importance of Selective Words:
  • This verse highlights the virtue of selective speech.
  • Those with knowledge are cautious with their words, while individuals of understanding maintain a calm spirit.
  • When contemplating offering advice, it’s crucial to consider whether our words are necessary, timely, and beneficial.

A Word Fitly Spoken

• Proverbs 25:11: “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”
• The Beauty of Well-Timed Words:
  • This verse celebrates the impact of well-timed and well-spoken words.
  • Just as precious metal enhances the beauty of a setting, words carefully chosen and thoughtfully delivered can have a profound and positive effect.
  • When offering advice, ensure that your words are both timely and thoughtfully crafted.

Restore One Another

• Galatians 6:1: “Brothers, even if a man is caught in some fault, you who are spiritual must restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; looking to yourself so that you also aren’t tempted.”
• The Spirit of Gentleness:
  • When offering advice in response to a fault or mistake, this verse instructs us to do so with gentleness and humility.
  • It reminds us to examine our motives and approach such conversations with a spirit of restoration rather than judgment.
  • Unsolicited advice can be better received when it comes from a place of genuine care and concern.

A Word in Due Season

• Proverbs 15:23: “A man has joy in the answer of his mouth. How good is a word spoken at the right time!”
• The Blessing of Timely Words:
  • This verse emphasizes the joy that comes from giving the right answer at the right time.
  • Timing plays a crucial role in offering advice.
  • Words spoken at the appropriate moment are more likely to be received with gratitude and understanding.

Listen to Counsel and Receive Instruction

• Proverbs 19:20: “Listen to counsel and receive instruction, that you may be wise in your latter end.”
• The Path to Wisdom:
  • Listening to counsel and receiving instruction are essential elements of gaining wisdom.
  • This verse highlights that by doing so, we can become wise and make sound decisions, ensuring a favorable outcome in the end.
  • Unsolicited advice can sometimes be viewed as uninvited instruction, so it’s important to gauge whether the situation calls for it and if it will contribute to the person’s wisdom.

Admonish the Disorderly

• 1 Thessalonians 5:14: “We exhort you, brothers, admonish the disorderly, encourage the fainthearted, support the weak, be patient toward all.”
• A Balanced Approach:
  • In situations where admonishment or advice is necessary, this verse provides guidance on the approach.
  • It encourages a balanced approach that involves admonishing the disorderly while also providing encouragement and support.
  • Unsolicited advice should be administered with patience and compassion, recognizing the individual’s needs.

The Bible offers valuable insights on the matter of giving unsolicited advice. While offering guidance and counsel can be a loving gesture, it’s essential to do so with humility, self-control, and careful consideration of timing and necessity. Ultimately, our words should aim to uplift, restore, and provide wisdom rather than to intrude or impose.