A Classroom of One

“The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.” (Pr 14:8 AV)

Understanding one’s way is quite a feat.  This is not simply knowing what we are doing.  It is knowing why we are doing it.  Understandings our way is to also perceive what we should or should not do before we do or do not do it.  The opposite is to lie to one’s self.  We live in an impulsive generation.  A generation that acts out of mere emotion and desire without much forethought as to why we are doing what we are doing.  Ignorance of, or callousness towards, the consequence’s is ignored.  Another writer understands this to mean the prudent comprehends the way of his calling and knows how to best manage it.  He does so as to honor God the best way he can.  Matthew Barnes writers, “The Hebrew counterpart to the Greek “Know thyself.” “The highest wisdom is for a person to understand his own way. The most extreme folly is self-deceit.”  Solomon is sharing with his children the best way to make life changes is to know yourself very well.

To be a student of one’s self is the beginning of applying the fear of the LORD which results in wisdom.  We are conditioned to live a certain way.  Not that everything, or even most things, are a matter for a Psychologist.  Much of our issues are spiritual ones.  We are conditioned by our experience, our desires, and our training.  We are a product of the world around us.  There is cause to our effect.  Nothing is random and without reason.  We make a choice because we are motivated and guided by something.  Knowing what that is begins the process of growth and change.  There is a great principle here that may escape the mind if we are not careful to consider the depth of this proverb.  The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way BEFORE he pursues that way.  The wise take the time necessary to determine appropriateness, motive, and goal before he chooses one thing over another.  He weighs everything in the balance.  Not just the consequences of what he is about to do.  He also considers the motive behind it. 

America’s Funniest Videos is filled with a library of clips of those who did not understand their way.  If we are struggling with sin, we may want to stop and be a student of self.  We may want to delve into why it is we feel it necessary to pursue a harmful lifestyle.  What is it about that sin that is so attractive?  What are we replacing?  Why is it that we feel we have to do something?  Is it our ego?  Is it our flesh?  Why can’t we say ‘no’ to something we know will bring us harm?  This understanding takes time and commitment.  It takes slowing down the life and taking the time to understand our true nature.  This takes examining not just our actions, but the heart and mind behind those actions.  It requires musing and self-critical thinking.  This takes honesty.  Hence, the second part of the proverb.  Only then can we rid ourselves of that which hinders our walk and replace it with the true Word of God.