Who is on Your Village Panel?

We all have one. A panel that we go to for advice when we are overwhelmed. Whose guidance we seek when we are lost, and maybe even comfort when we feel alone. Have you considered who is on your panel?

"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom" (James 3:13, NIV).

Think of your panel as the inner circle of your village. It's an intimate list. It's an influential group of advisors and supports in your life. Consider the following questions before you make your list below:

• Who do you go to when you need answers? or what sources are your trusted few for answers?

• Whose opinion do you revere more than most?

• Who do you consider your experts in life?

• Whose company do you surround yourself with?

Your Panel.

Take a moment and list the 3-5 most trusted panelists you hold dear.

1. _______________________________

2. _______________________________

3. _______________________________

4. _______________________________

5. _______________________________ Need a few ideas or prompts? Is it a mentor? A family member? A close group of friends? Write down their names. Is it an author? A podcast host? Jot down the titles of works you reference most. Is it the ever-utilized, Google? Certain websites you tend to gravitate towards? Is it social media? Consider the accounts you find yourself favoriting or saving posts.

Now take a look at your list. Are any of your panelists, God?

If so, would you consider Him number one? If not who is your most trusted panelist?

Your answers may surprise you, or they may feel fairly aligned. Either way, it's good to take stock of our village panels now and again. We have all been guilty of undervaluing or leaving God off this list at one point or another. But friends not only does He deserve a spot on your panel, He should be the voice we listen to most.

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding" (Proverbs 9:10 ,NIV).

Ways to seek God's advice:

Just like we consult the other panelists in our life, we have to spend time with our most trusted advisor. Seeking God in our busy world can feel difficult, but there are a few long-standing ways He calls us to find His voice in the chaos.

Stay quiet.

Make time and space for him. Get still and listen. Morning meditation, quiet walks

(and yes, without headphones), or even just reverently sipping your morning coffee or tea.

Any time you can concentrate on growing still and being open can lead to a holy moment with our Creator.

Read His Word.

The Bible can feel like an ancient, outdated text if you are too afraid to deepen your understanding of God's written word. It's okay to have your doubts. Lord knows we all have our moments. But consider a daily bible habit or a bible reading plan for some extra accountability. Our God is good and faithful. Let His Word serve as a reminder. You may be surprised at how well scripture can soothe an aching soul if just given the chance.

Pray. If you do nothing else--let this be the first habit you cultivate. This could be the first thing when you wake up--leaving a moment before your feet hit the floor to say a prayer of thanks and ask for guidance today. This could be before a tough conversation. Find a quiet spot in your office, car, heck the bathroom, and ask for a little help to stay level-headed and say the right things. Have a stressful morning commute? Offer up some of that time to pray to God.

As you tuck yourself in for the night, take a moment to reflect on where you saw God today.

It doesn't have to be long, but let it be honest and genuine. You'll hear His voice before you know it.

"Set your minds on the things that are above, not on the things that are on earth," (Colossians 3:2, NASB).

By taking time to seek out His advice, we allow ourselves to slow down, gain some needed perspective, and set our sights on things above. Allowing us to grow closer to God and into the person He calls us to be. May His advice fill your life with needed expertise!