Learning to Seek Wisdom and Humility in Everyday Life
Have you ever been absolutely sure you were right about something, only to find out later you missed the mark? Maybe it was a heated debate with a friend, a decision at work, or even a disagreement at home. We all know the feeling—the sense that our way just makes sense, and if only others could see it our way, things would be better. It’s a common experience, and honestly, it’s only human.
Biblical Warning: Why Our Judgment Isn’t Always Reliable
The Bible actually talks about this tendency. In Proverbs 14:12 (and repeated in 16:25), it says, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” In other words, sometimes what feels right to us isn’t just a little off—it can lead us far from where we actually want to go. These verses remind us that our instincts and gut feelings, as strong as they are, aren’t always the best guides for our lives.
Everyday Examples: How This Shows Up
Think about a time you were convinced a shortcut was the best route, only to end up stuck in traffic. Or maybe you gave advice based on your own experience, but it didn’t help because you missed important details about the other person’s situation. These moments show us that relying only on our own view can sometimes backfire. We don’t always have the full picture, and that’s okay—it’s part of being human.
The Danger: Trusting Only Ourselves
When we trust only our own perspective, we run the risk of self-deception. We might ignore wise counsel, overlook red flags, or repeat the same mistakes. It’s easy to get caught in an echo chamber where our opinions are never challenged, but this can keep us from growing or making better choices. Our hearts can lead us astray, not because we’re bad people, but because we’re limited. That’s why the Bible warns us not to lean solely on our own understanding.
An Alternative Path: Humility and Seeking Guidance
So, what’s the better way? Humility. It means admitting we don’t know it all, and being open to learning—from others, from God, and from life itself. Wisdom often starts with a humble heart. Instead of charging ahead with our own opinions, we can slow down, ask questions, and seek guidance. This might look like praying for clarity, reading Scripture to see what God says, or listening to trusted friends before making decisions.
Practical Takeaways: How to See Beyond Ourselves
- Check your opinions: When you feel strongly about something, pause and ask, “Does this line up with what God says in His Word?”
- Listen for God’s voice: Spend time in prayer and reflection. Sometimes, quiet moments bring new understanding.
- Stay humble: Remember, it’s okay to be wrong sometimes. Be willing to admit mistakes and learn from them.
- Seek wise counsel: Ask for advice from people you trust, especially those who have walked with God for a while.
Conclusion: Beyond Our Feelings, Toward True Wisdom
We all have blind spots, but we don’t have to stay stuck in them. By choosing humility, seeking wisdom, and checking our views against God’s truth, we can step out of the trap of being “right in our own eyes.” Let’s encourage each other to look beyond our own understanding and welcome the guidance God freely offers. After all, true wisdom often begins with admitting we don’t have all the answers—and trusting the One who does.
Minister A Francine Green
July 2025
afrancinegreen.com 