Friday, August 20, 2010

Proverbs 12: 15 Seek Wise Counsel…

This verse is another contrast between those that God sees as being foolish and the ones He sees as being wise.

Proverbs 12: 15 (NKJV)
15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes,
But he who heeds counsel is wise.


Here are the definitions of the main words in these verses: 

the way: the path
fool: One who is deficient in judgment, sense, or understanding; opposite of wise
right: Most favorable, desirable, or convenient

heeds: pays attention to; listens to and considers
counsel: Advice or guidance, especially as solicited from a knowledgeable person
wise: 1. possessing, showing, or prompted by wisdom or discernment 2. prudent; sensible

Using these definitions, we see that people who are deficient in judgment and understanding choose paths that THEY feel is most favorable or convenient for them. They base their path in life on their feelings instead of sound judgment.


In contrast, the person who shows wisdom or discernment and is sensible, will listen to and pay attention to advice or guidance from a knowledgeable person.


As we saw in the first several chapters of Proverbs, God illustrated that the wisdom that comes from Him and studying His Word is the true wisdom available in this world. Since He created this world, He knows what will help us get through our life in it, in ways where He can lead and bless us.


We must be very careful to base the way we act and the things we do in this life, on what God says and not on what we “feel like doing” from one minute to the next. 

Proverbs 3:1-12 (N I V)
Benefits of Wisdom 

1 My son, do not forget my teaching,
but keep my commands in your heart,
2 for they will prolong your life many years
and bring you prosperity.
3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart. 

4 Then you will win favor and a good name
in the sight of God and man.
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will direct your paths.
7 Do not be wise in your own eyes;
fear the LORD and shun evil.
8 This will bring health to your body
and nourishment to your bones.

9 Honor the LORD with your wealth,
with the firstfruits of all your crops;
10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
and your vats will brim over with new wine.
11 My son, do not despise the LORD's discipline
and do not resent his rebuke,
12 because the LORD disciplines those he loves,
as a father, the son he delights in.

2 comments:

  1. Popping in to say thanks for your good wishes for Jan. I noticed your comment on FB, I've been and will continue to give updates and thought you might like to know that. Her computer is now fixed, but she's not able yet to spend any real time on it.
    Sandy
    Traveling Suitcase

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  2. How we feel is never a good measure of what is right! We certainly need to pay attention to advice that is sound and biblical, and receive guidance from those who walk faithfully in the ways of the Lord.

    Proverbs 3:1-12 is definitely sound advice for providing a good foundation on how we should live our lives.

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