The Wise Listen to Advice

“The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.” Proverbs 12:15 NIV

In a story published earlier this week by the Duluth News, it was reported that Kristoffer Johnson won the Arrowhead 135 Ultra, crossing the finish line after 35 hours and 17 minutes of running while pulling his sled full of gear through the snowy terrain. Jonson, 41, of Seattle, won the "on foot" category of the notoriously difficult winter race, which is run almost exclusively on snowmobile trails and requires participants to haul a list of required survival gear… Jonson, who was born and raised in St. Louis Park, said he took eight hours off his finish time from last year. He credited that to advice from last year's winner, Alan Chapman, who told him to just wear the running shoes he's used to — not something special meant to help in snow.

And, you know, in the same way Johnson was wise to take the advice of someone with a proven track record rather than following his own way, you and I would do well to seek out good and godly advice from fellow believers who have a proven track record of studying the Word when we’re in need of guidance as well. You see, prudent people are aware that they don’t always know or understand what they should do… even after praying and extensively seeking answers from the Scriptures. It’s in those times then that seeking out the advice of a fellow trusted believer is a very wise idea as opposed to just doing what “seems right”… which usually ends in disaster. 

So, be humble in admitting that you don’t have all the answers my friend. And then accept the fact that there will be times when you must “listen to advice” from a trusted brother or sister who has a proven track record of giving good and godly counsel. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the Word that guides our path and leads us into all righteousness. Lord, when we still have questions or need clarity after reading the Word and praying for answers, help us to humbly seek out and listen to the advice of our fellow brothers and sisters knowing that as iron sharpens iron so a friend sharpens a friend. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!