Discerning Prudence

For Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Proverbs 14:8

The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way,
but the folly of fools is deceiving.

Here is the great prize of the prudent - he can see where he is going. If he has strayed from the path of righteousness, he will catch himself and turn back to the path. If he is heading into trouble, he can see the danger ahead and act accordingly. Thus, the prudent turns to Christ in faith and repentance. Where others cannot see the calamity awaiting them, he sees and turns to his Savior. Where others cannot see the glory of the righteous path, he sees and keeps his eyes upon the prize. Where others cannot see the freedom of bondage to Christ, he sees and rejoices in his freedom to live for the glory of God. Where others can only see with their physical eyes, he sees what is unseen and moves forward with anticipation towards the unseen, eternal glory.

Meanwhile the folly of fools deceive them into believing that their slavery to sin is freedom; that becoming slaves to their passions is liberating. They do not merely miss the hidden traps of their chosen paths, but refuse to see the clear signs warning them of danger. For the folly of fools is that they cherish their foolishness. They are happy; they believe they are on the right path. They do not want to see dangers that would make them have to change.

Pray for those whom you know who are blinded by folly. Only the Holy Spirit can give the spiritual sight needed and the faith to turn to Christ. And pray for yourself, that you not be led astray by the folly of the world which is telling you that you are the fool. Always, we must depend upon the Spirit working in us to keep our eyes open and our path leading to God.