I have encountered this line of reasoning on numerous occasions, and I must respectfully disagree with its complete accuracy. It would be hasty to deduce that dependence in a relationship automatically equates to idol worship. The Bible offers tailored guidance to individuals based on their unique needs, assuring that God will provide for those needs through relationships. I firmly believe that God does not withhold His care to prevent us from relying on others during times of pain. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the concept of idol worship, we must delve into the wisdom books. It becomes evident that idol worship is closely tied to the words we trust and follow as we navigate through life. The Bible clearly distinguishes between the counsel of the wicked and the counsel of God. Therefore, attempting to comprehend someone's negative reactions in relationships solely through the lens of that relationship would not yield comprehensive insights.The Psalmist initiates the discussion by establishing a clear distinction. On one side, we have the counsel of the righteous, who derive their insights through deep reflection on God's teachings. On the other side, we encounter false counsel originating from individuals who have no inclination to ponder upon matters concerning God. It is important to note that counsel in the Old Testament does not occupy a neutral standpoint. We are not instructed to heed all forms of counsel and form our own judgments, as the Greeks would suggest. Instead, counsel is intimately connected to our ongoing battle against the malevolent forces present in our world. Thus, counsel encompasses more than mere words; it encompasses the underlying spirit with which those words are conveyed. Consequently, the Old Testament emphasizes the existence of two distinct types of counsel, each leading to divergent paths. While many tend to fixate on the presence of evil, the true wisdom of counsel lies in its ability to safeguard individuals from harm and destruction.
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