Pastor Phil Burdoin
July 31, 2022In the year 2022 we have an incredible amount of knowledge. We know things about science and physics and medicine. We carry around pocket computers that can answer any question we can think of. We are full of knowledge but what we really need is not more knowledge, but more wisdom.
Wisdom is different than knowledge. while knowledge is based on knowing things, wisdom is based on application of knowledge and making wise choices based on that knowledge.
As we continue on in our study of proverbs, today we will focus on learning to listen. Especially learning to listen to wise counsel. Why do we find it so difficult to listen? Why don't we listen to others when they try to speak truth and wisdom into our lives? Most of us at one point have been in a situation that could have been avoided if we would have only listened to those who are trying to help us. The book of proverbs is loaded with versus that illustrate this point.
Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.
Proverbs 13:10 NIV 1984
Pride is the enemy of wisdom.In the book of proverbs pride is viewed as the opposite of humility. Humility is recognizing that God is actually responsible for the accomplishments in my life, not me. Self-centered pride only breeds quarrels.
humility on the other hand is where we recognize that we don't have everything figured out and that there is wisdom in listening to others and the council they offer us. Wisdom is where we begin to learn and see life from God's point of view. When that happens we can be different and we can make a difference.
Mockers resent correction, so they avoid the wise.
Proverbs 15:12
A mocker is someone who ridicules or makes fun of everything. And they do this because they believe their way is the right way and everyone else’s is wrong.
This can also lead to being opposed to the gospel. Pride takes us to a place that says I can do it on my own And when I make mistakes it is better to try to cover them up rather than to admit them.
A fool spurns his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.
Proverbs 15:5
Your heavenly Father disciplines those he loves too. See Psalm 94:12-13 and Hebrews 15:5b-6.
Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid.
Proverbs 12:1
Humility is the ally of wisdom.Listening well takes humility and a willingness to learn and be corrected. The truly smart and wise people are those who are willing to listen to others, perhaps even their enemies if they are speaking the truth.
The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.
Proverbs 12:15
Notice it doesn't say the wise have all the answers. No, they understand they don't have all the answers. To come to a place where you realize you don't have all the answers is when you become wise.
Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise. Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.
Proverbs 15:31-32
Lifegiving correction steers us towards the grace of Jesus Christ and saves us from spiritual death.
Listening leads to life, but lack of listening leads to ruin.Don’t just ask for advice, be willing to follow it.
Listen more and talk less
Pay attention to those God has placed in your life.
