Devotion: Proverbs 12:15

Proverbs 12:15 The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.

We are more than halfway through the month and have already covered so much on the topic of humility. But we still have a few weeks to go and many more verses that we need to explore before finishing up. Today’s verse takes us back into the book of Proverbs where we see the fool being compared to the wise. In this context, the fool would be the prideful person while the wise would be the person who is humble. Though it does not say pride or humble/humility anywhere in the verse, it is strongly implied by the context and that is the interpretation we are going to be using as we explore today’s devotion.

The fool is someone who is self-righteous. They trust their own emotions and judgements, following every whim and emotion with bias and stubborn refusal to do anything but what they want. I know many people like this and it is frustrating to try to work with them. They refuse to listen, thinking they know it all and their way is best. (I am sure you are probably thinking of at least one person who you know who is like this so understand what I am saying.)

When you have a fool who is determined to do things their way only, refusing to listen and take advice, they usually set themselves up for failure. And usually their self-centered attitude leads them to be morally stubborn as well. They refuse to listen, refuse to accept responsibility, refuse to see themselves as anything but right and victimize themselves if they do not succeed or get their way. This belief leads to blind spots in their lives and ultimately to mistakes and disaster.

But the wise listen to advice… What a stark contrast from the self-righteous stubbornness  of a fool with the humble teachability of the wise. Wisdom is identified with humility. They recognize their limitations and actively seek the counsel of others because they understand that there is value in listening to others who may have more insight or experience. They seek God and His will for their life rather than relying on themselves, their emotions, or anything else.

It is imperative that we understand our natural thoughts are often biased and selfish; therefore, listening to wise counsel is the best way to align ourselves with God’s will. Take some time to pray over your life. Identify the influences you have and who you surround yourself with. Are you seeking counsel from mentors, pastors, or Godly leaders of influence? Or are you relying on yourself? I pray that God would show you how to humbly seek the input and counsel of others to accomplish His purpose in your life.

Prayer: Lord, Help me to find wise counsel to surround myself with. I don’t want to rely on myself or be self-centered. I want to be humble and do Your will. Amen 

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