June 27 – Wisdom in Community (Proverbs 15:22)

“The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice.”(Proverbs 12:15)

IN WORD:
How do the wise know their decisions are sound? How do fools know theirs are not? Neither question can be answered by looking within. The human heart is not reliable in matters of wisdom. We hope our perspectives are based on reality, but there are always distortions, always perceptual filters through which we receive our information. The way that seems right to us may — or may not — be right.
The history of Israel is filled with 2 contrasting approaches to life. In Deuteronomy, God and Moses repeatedly urge the people to do what is right in the eyes of the Lord. In Judges, everyone did what was right in his or her own eyes. Thereafter, Scripture clearly points out that godly kings did right in God’s eyes. Ungodly kings did right in their own eyes. But nearly all thought they were doing right.
Our period of history is one in which most people do right in their own eyes. Ethics are considered by most to be relative. People live their lives as ships with no anchor. Each has his own god. We are urged by popular spiritual leaders to look within for the answers, for deep in the human heart we will find our own true calling and follow our own course. Nothing could be more un-biblical. Fools aren’t aware of their foolishness. How can we know what is right? By feeling? By following momentary or self-derived desires? Is there any objective standard by which wisdom is measured?

IN DEED:
There is, of course. The Bible gives us solid wisdom on which to base our lives. But while it is absolute, its interpretation can vary widely. That’s where advice comes in. Never underestimate the body of Christ. He has crafted us to live in community. Wisdom usually comes not to godly individuals but to godly fellowships.
Are you seeking direction? Know your heart, but do not trust it entirely. Measure out by biblical wisdom and the counsel of those who follow it well.

“Seek the advice of your betters in preference to following your own inclinations.” -Thomas A Kempis-