By: Jeff Watley
Proverbs 19:20 Listen to counsel and receive instruction, that you may be wise in your latter days. I wish I knew then what I know now. I believe we all have said this statement at one time or another. Abraham Lincoln said, “I do not think much of a man who is not wiser today than he was yesterday.” Does this not carry with it the idea that we gain wisdom with age through experience?
Wisdom can be defined as the ability to discern or judge what is true, right, or lasting. This is the ability to have insight, common sense, and display good judgment. Some believe wisdom is best described as practical knowledge or making the best use of knowledge.
There are ways to gain wisdom, and I plan to discuss just a few. The first way is the most painful. That is the trial-and-error method. Through your judgments and decisions, you can learn a lot from mistakes and bad choices. Even though pain is a great learning device, there is a better way to increase wisdom. We should seek out those who have had more life experience or have knowledge in the specific field or subject. Seeking advice is a great option if you choose your source carefully and cautiously.
Look at the example of Solomon’s son, Rehoboam. In 1 Kings Chapter 12, we read of Rehoboam reigning after the death of Solomon. Jeroboam and the whole assembly of Israel gave Rehoboam sound advice to lower the burden of the people.
Instead of heeding the advice of the elders, Rehoboam consulted the young men and spoke to the people according to the advice given him by the young men.
This would lead to the rebellion and division of the Kingdom. We learn the destructive results of seeking advice from questionable people and those lacking the proper experience.
We should seek to hear counsel and receive instruction for those who imitate Christ. This is spoken by Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:1: “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” We seek the advice he gives in his epistles, which are inspired by God and delivered to man through the Holy Spirit.
We should also apply instructions seen in the proper examples shown by godly people. Philippians 3:17 “Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern.”
If we follow the advice and instruction set forth in the Bible, we will be wiser in thy latter end.