We All Do Dumb Things…
You probably remember the insurance advertisements from ten to fifteen years ago where it would show a person doing something that is crazy and then it would say “We all do dumb things…” and then advertised their coverage for when we do those dumb things. Recently I have watched some “Fail compilation” videos where it just shows 20 minutes straight of people doing things which end in disaster. Sometimes they are so unbelievable I have to go back and look at it again and I wonder “Why on earth would they do that and NOT think it was going to end poorly?”
The truth is, the insurance company was right. We all do dumb things. Chances are that afterward we were upset with ourselves and shook our heads saying “What was I thinking?” And we, hopefully, learned to be smarter the next time and think it through.
The book of Proverbs is almost humorous to read in places because it addresses this type of thing a lot. Proverbs 28:26 is an example. “Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.”
How can we walk in wisdom? Well, the hard way is to learn from our own mistakes. That is a harsh school though. It is better to get it where scripture advises us
Start by realizing that God is above us and that we are subject to Him. Trying to get by on just what we think is a good idea isn’t all that smart. We need to see that looking in His word for good guidance is wise in and of itself. Proverbs 9:10. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.”
Then seek wisdom from people around you who have already done this and seem to be doing a better job at making wise decisions than you might be doing. Proverbs 15:22. “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.”
Thirdly, but not lastly, we should be constantly asking God for it. This is probably done by the Holy Spirit reminding us of the things we have already read in His Word. James 1:5. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”