Proverbs 28:26, “Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe.”
If you were to be honest I’m sure you can think of many times that you trusted yourself and were let down. Whether it was a time you trusted your feelings and got hurt in a relationship or a time when you tried to rely upon your judgment in a situation and failed. All of us at different times have been our own worst enemy.
There is an ole’ proverb that gives a good definition of insanity, which is, “ insanity is doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results.” Therefore, based on that definition supported by Proverbs 29:1, “Whoever remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed —without remedy,” we can clearly see if we have let ourselves down in the past we shouldn’t keep trusting only in our own wisdom.
As a result, we should be open to the wisdom of others. First, from the Word of God, then from what God says directly to our hearts, and lastly, from successful people around us. King Solomon is teaching a simple, yet powerful principle- “if you only trust yourself you are a fool, but if you walk in wisdom you will be safe.”
Ofcourse, we can trust ourselves in many ways when it comes to what shoes to wear, how to walk, etc… but we shouldn’t live a “self-reliant” life. To experience true success we must rely upon God. The easiest way to see this is concerning life after death. If you only trust yourself in regards to the after life you are a fool. However, if you trust what God has said, you will be kept safe.
Make a decision today to trust God and His Word above your own thoughts and emotions.
Reflection
Action
- Repent of the sin of “self-reliance.”
- Ask God to lead you in His wisdom.
- Be open to receive and give God’s wisdom to others.
