9.11.2009

Boyd Bailey: Walk In Wisdom…

“He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom is kept safe.” Proverbs 28:26

What does it mean to walk in wisdom? The contrast is to run ahead of the Lord irresponsibly or to lag behind Him in fear. We walk in wisdom when we wait on Christ’s command and walk with Him by faith. There is a peace and confidence when we walk lock step with the Lord. Indeed, avoid the world’s wisdom, embrace God’s and you will come to know Him and His ways. “For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe” (1 Corinthians 1:21).

Those who walk in wisdom recognize the foolishness of self-trust. Many times there has already been the pain of walking through life without the Lord and the sad experience of self-destructive behavior. Walking alone through life leads to loneliness, feeling lost and a solitary soul. Fools flounder for lack of friends and direction, however the wise are surrounded with mentors and godly guides who protect them from themselves.

“He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm” (Proverbs 13:20). Who do you walk with day in and day out, on the job and away from work? Does your spouse trust those with whom you spend your free time? Are your influencers at work men and women of impeccable integrity? It’s walking with the wise that brings you wisdom and discernment. Wisdom surrounds itself with those who will say to you what you don’t want to hear. Wise friends are not afraid to tell you the truth.

Therefore, shun self-reliance and instead rely on the wisdom of the Lord and His godly followers. Ask your parents what they think. Many times He gives them a unique and accurate assessment of your needs because of their God given authority in your life. Trust in self is a slippery slope into insignificance, but trust in the Lord grows your wisdom and expands your influence. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take” (Proverbs 3:5-6, NLT). Do I prayerfully walk in wisdom as my regular routine in life?

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