Receiving Advice

For Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Proverbs 13:10

By insolence comes nothing but strife,
but with those who take advice is wisdom.

This is insolence of pride. The insolent person rudely rebuffs help and counsel, especially from others whom he deems below himself. He believes it is beneath his dignity or a sign of weakness or a giving in of his authority. Thus the insolent professional does not need advice, especially from a nonprofessional. The person in authority will not take counsel from those under him.

Christians fall under this same spell through spiritualizing the same attitude. Church officers, citing that they are responsible to God for the use of their authority, may be resistent to seek the counsel of their flock. A husband, intent on being the "head" of the family, may not listen to the counsel of his wife and children.

But it is true wisdom to receive and consider good advice, from whomever it comes. The wise person is wise precisely because he knows his limitations and because he desires wisdom and knowledge above reputation. The one who seeks to protect his reputation often loses it because such a goal will lead to foolish decisions. But the one who prizes wisdom will rise in the estimation of others, even those who differ with him.

Seek wisdom today. Listen to whatever advice is given. Indeed, listen more carefully to the advice of those you least respect. God may be speaking to you through them. In his wisdom, he may very well choose the foolish and the weak to deliver his wise message to us.