The inclination of men's heart is to trust in himself. After all, who knows our heart better?
Obviously we are going to look out for our own interests. We know what we like. We know what is best for ourselves. Each day we make
independent choices, often without the
inclusion of others. This all seems natural, right and best. But Proverbs 28:26 warns us, "He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom is kept safe". It is foolish to think that we can trust our own hearts, our own motives, and our own decisions. We need outside influence. Most importantly, we need God. We need God's direction, God's Word, God's Spirit, God's people.
From my study of Proverbs I see three guiding influences that should guide us down the path of wisdom. I've categorized them under three words: rule, rod and relationship. The principles or truths of God's Word (rule), the discipline of God (rod), and the love of God (relationship) lead us down the path of righteousness.
Tomorrow, after reading Proverbs 29, we will look more specifically at these three. Until then, meditate today on Proverbs 28:26 and ask yourself, "Who or what is influencing my decisions?"
