Daily Devo - Thursday, August 16, 2007

"Whoever heeds instruction
is on the path to life,
but he who rejects reproof
leads others astray."
- Proverbs 10:17 (ESV)

America is founded upon the principle of 'rugged individualism'. Historians and supporters of American culture are quick to point out the many benefits this cultural ideology has produced--and to a large degree they make many good points.

Yet there is also a dark side to rugged individualism. As the image to the left indicates, we tend to view those who follow instructions as "dumb", or at the least someone who should not be admired. We admire the rebel, the man who 'pulls himself up by his boot straps', the individual who takes charge of her own live. Our history is full of this type of sentiment. The old idea of "Go West, Young Man" (i.e. make your own way in life) is still strongly among us.

Yet again, Scripture has a different view--and it turns this world upside down on its head. The Bible says it is the wise person, not the fool, who listens to instruction. The fool insists that God only speaks to him, the wise know that God speaks through others.

Are you open to instruction, or are you usually the one who 'has all the answers'? Listen, heed, learn---and be wise.

Prayer

Merciful Father,
Protect me from my own foolish heart.
Even more, protect others from my utter foolishness.
Grant me opportunities to be instructed by others,
that I may be wise, for your glory and honor.
Amen.