The weather was magnificent with warm sunshine and little wind. Our 4 hour walk was much enjoyed by 25 participants. We walked from Devonport to Takapuna along the coastal walkway enjoying views of Rangitoto with other islands of Hauraki Gulf in the distance. Dolphins were spotted by some of us. We then walked along the Bayswater cycle trail back to Devonport, stopping occasionally to view Auckland city and harbour. The day finished with coffee, tea and icecreams at the cafe on Torpedo Bay. Tina Chen shared with us a reflection based on The Word for Today. The first Psalm in the Bible talks about the dangers of getting the wrong counsel, listening to the wrong voices and mixing with the wrong people. 'Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do' (Psalm 1:1-3). Implicit in the word 'prosper' is stability, nourishment, productivity, strength, durability and success. So pick your friends carefully and prayerfully, because those closest to you can have the ability to make you or break you. Check out any advisor before he or she speaks into your life. Make sure they are: (1) people of integrity; (2) people of faith; (3) people with influence; (4) people with complementary gifts; (5) people who share your vision; (6) people who are loyal; (7) people who are creative. If you look for these seven qualities in those who advise you, there's every chance you'll succeed in what you've been called to do. Also, get God's input. Make sure the goals and plans you've set are in harmony with God's will for you. Because if they're not, having the best counsellors in the world won't help you one bit.