Be Prudent

O. T. #1462  "Be Prudent"
June 12, 2019
Proverbs 14-Part 2
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. Proverbs 14:12    

LET IT GLOW

Are you a prudent person? Usually, the word is used in a bad sense, but not in this case.
In the Hebrew language of the Old Testament, the word prudent means cunning; crafty; subtle.

Look at verses 15-16: Only simpletons believe everything they're told! The prudent carefully consider their steps. The wise are cautious and avoid danger; fools plunge ahead with reckless confidence.

Solomon teaches us to be prudent instead of simple. What are we to be like, then?
Liberty Bible Commentary suggests:

• Consider carefully the planting of your feet and ponder the direction in which you are advancing.
• Fear the dreadful consequences of evil.
• Choose to remove yourself from evil's presence with haste, rather than playing around with it.
• Don't give way to passion. We can't master any situation (without Jesus). Remain humble and not confident in yourself.
• Be cautious and avoid danger.

Try before you trust. Weigh the good and bad, consequences and possibilities. Prove all things and believe not every spirit. (Matthew Henry)

So be a prudent person in a good sense, right? Consider and choose cautiously.

LET IT GROW

Jump back up to our key verse.
As imperfect humans, there will always be a way that seems right to us in the moment, but ends up bringing disaster. Have we experienced a dangerous direction when we thought the way or decision was right?
Going the way that seems right leads us to please ourselves. Opinions and practices appear to be good. But they are actually worldliness and earthly-mindedness.
What sounds reasonable and is attractive to the old nature, may not be God's way for us. We can apply this to cults and "isms." Since their ways are not the right way, because Jesus is The Way, it will lead to death spiritually. Be aware of those deceivers. Let us warn others of their falsehood.

LET IT GO

Be prudent, wise, and discerning.
Watch out for the deceivers.
Stay in God's Word.
Remove myself from evil.