PROVERBS 15
19 The way of a sluggard is like a hedge of thorns,
but the path of the upright is a level highway.
20 A wise son makes a glad father,
but a foolish man despises his mother.
21 Folly is a joy to him who lacks sense,
but a man of understanding walks straight ahead.
22 Without counsel plans fail,
but with many advisers they succeed.
23 To make an apt answer is a joy to a man,
and a word in season, how good it is!
24 The path of life leads upward for the prudent,
that he may turn away from Sheol beneath.
– Proverbs 15:19-24
PROVERBS 15 COUNSEL IS ESSENTIAL TO SUCCESS
A poem by ILMA inspired by these verses
Those who serve the Lord will have humility to ask for counsel
They do not do things on their own without consulting someone
Because they seek guidance from God and others
Their plans usually succeed because they are humble
Those who never seek guidance from others may fail
Because two perspectives are better than just one mind.
In his older age, Solomon backs up verse 22 in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 which says “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Also in James 1:5, we are to ask for wisdom from God who gives it generously to all. In chapter 4, James also talks about relying on God instead of boasting about your plans for tomorrow. God is the best counselor.
REFLECTION
- Share some insights about plans without counsel that you have encountered.
