Most of us don’t like to be told what to do. I know I don’t.
Looking back on my younger years, I have some regrets. I made some poor life choices which could have had negative consequences. Fortunately, God is gracious, and I was spared.
I still want to be independent at times. Oh, my foolish pride! At those times, I need to humble myself and ask for help. I must admit I don’t have all the answers and need assistance.
Can you relate?
Have you ever opened a package, and started putting together something before reading the instructions, only to turn to the manual for directions once the assembly becomes too complicated? Or, charged ahead with a project only to realize you don’t have all the information and only then seek help?
Anyone experienced with children understands the “I can do it myself” attitude. The two-year-olds want to pour their own milk. The four-year-olds want to tie their own shoes. The older child wants to show independence with a task. The teenager wants to set their own curfew.
We all naturally seek independence and autonomy.
But sometimes my choices aren’t wise or healthy. Sometimes my choices are actually dangerous and may produce lifelong consequences.
The book of Proverbs was primarily written by King Solomon. It has advice against temptations that can lure us into unhealthy situations. Chapter 23 is part of his “30 wise sayings”.
These sayings warn of the dangers of gluttony, drunkenness, wanton living and the consequences of those poor choices. Solomon advises the reader to listen to their parent’s sound advice and seek Godly truth.
Despite all the dire warnings, there is hope.
“Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge”
Proverbs 23:12 NIV.
The Passion translation puts it this way:
“ Pay close attention to the teaching that corrects you, and open your heart to every word of instruction.” Proverbs 23:12 TPT
The promise is wisdom, discipline, and an understanding of the truth to keep my heart on the right path.
If we follow these simple rules to open our hearts, incline our ears to hear the words of God, and apply them to our daily lives, we could save ourselves from much heartache in life.
As parents, we rejoice when our children make good choices, follow good advice, and make healthy decisions. God feels the same when we make good decisions.
“My beloved child, when your heart is full of wisdom, my heart is full of gladness” (Proverbs 23:15 TPT).
Now that I am older (and hopefully wiser!), I struggle with my independent pride less, but I still struggle. I feel I’m more willing to seek advice from others, listen to the biblical teachings of God, and make healthier decisions in my life for myself and my family. I can’t change my past, but I can improve my future, with God’s help.
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