The best way

Proverbs 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.


Who would you trust for relationship advice: a preteen or a couple who has been married for 40 years? Who would you trust to diagnose a vehicle malfunction: a toddler or a respected mechanic? Who would you trust for navigation directions: a foreign exchange student or a born-and-raised local? Those answers seem a little too obvious, right? Of course we’d choose the ones with more wisdom on the given subject! Wisdom is defined as the best course of action based on one's knowledge and understanding. Or to put it more simply, wisdom is applied knowledge.

Let’s take the scenario question a step deeper. Whose way do we trust for how we should live our lives: the world’s way or God’s way? Wouldn’t it make sense to pick the way of the one with the most applied knowledge (wisdom)? God’s way is the best option because while the world is limited in knowledge, God has unlimited knowledge about all things, motives, and outcomes. Not only is God all-knowing, He is also completely holy, just, and loving. His way is not to harm us, oppress us, or strip us of freedom and fun. The world’s way seems right because it’s culturally acceptable, pleasurable, and based on its own definition of truth. But as Proverbs 14:12 says, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.”

Scripture is clear: There are only two “ways” or paths to choose from. There’s not a third option, an in-between option, or a lukewarm option. There is either the path that ends in life, or the path that ends in death.

Will we choose the path that seems right to man or the path that seems right to God?

God, help me not get caught up in the world’s system of “wisdom.” I know that you are All-Knowing and All-Wise and All-Good. Help me trust your wisdom alone.