We are on Part II of our series surrounding Seeking Wise Counsel to build a Healthy Marriage. In this episode we explore 3 kinds of counsel you should avoid, 4 kinds of counsel you should consider having, and 5 things to remember when choosing wise counsel for your healthy marriage. Remember, we are focused here just on Wise Counsel as it relates to your relationship with your Spouse.

The 3 types of counsel you should avoid (details on why explained in the episode):

1)  A person of the opposite sex, with the exception of a professional relationship – i.e. counselor, psychologist, lawyer, and clergy

2) Those going through a divorce

3) Family Members (there can be exceptions to this).

The 4 types of wise counsel to consider include:

1)  Wise counsel does not have to be comprised of people right in front of you.  It can start with books or podcasts – so if you are listening to this podcast, you are already on the right path.

2)  Professionals – Lawyers, doctors, psychologists, counselors, clergy

3) Positive role models – Get to know those couples that have been married for a long time and observe what they do right.  The Positive Role Model can also include an individual.  You want someone who has a good balance between faith, family and work

4)  Marriage groups and seminars.

Top 5 Things to consider when looking for wise counsel:

1. Ask someone outside of the situation.

2. Choose someone who has nothing to lose by telling you the truth.

3. Choose someone who is where you want to be in life.

4. Ask more than one person.

5. When you do meet with your wise counsel, ask direct questions:

– What is the wise things for me to do?

– What would you do if you were me?

– Do you know anyone else I could talk to about this situation?

– Can you recommend any books for me to read that may help me understand and deal with my situation.