When he encouraged his brothers to sell Joseph, he was purely selfish, looking for gain. His actions in regard to Tamar were unfair, and he broke his word. But now we see a different Judah. He is not thinking selfishly, but rather is concerned about his brother and father. He is not about to break his word, but he tells others of his promise. Judah was willing to be a living sacrifice, a slave in a foreign country, because of a promise he made and because of his love for others.

Some try to counsel God regarding how Christianity ought to be. How often do we here remarks made to justify an action such as, "I don't see anything wrong with it" or "It doesn't say not to do it." While these comments may be directed toward another person, the counsel is actually being made toward God. Whenever we find ourselves deciding that, "Well, I know it says that, but it means this," we need to reevaluate exactly what we mean and whom we think needs to hear it. When we start questioning the wisdom of God's Word, it amounts to an attempt to instruct the Almighty in the way he should have designed Christianity. We may couch it sayings like, "Times have changed," but it still amounts to giving God counsel he does not need. Others try to act like any time we apply God's Word that it amounts to opinion. This is simply an attempt to skirt the issue and give God counsel. "And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him" (Colossians 3:17).

Some people go further, saying that God did not tell us all that he intended and that we need further revelation, whether in written or spoken form. What they mean is that God did not tell us everything, so we--and He--must rely upon their revelation. Evidently, these have not read Peter's words, "According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue" (2 Peter 1:3). Since God has given all, there is nothing left for men to offer, making those who attempt unwise counselors indeed!