A prudent person foresees the danger ahead and takes precautions; the simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.

Anticipating danger

Interestingly, this proverb expects that dangerous situations will arise in our lives. If these situations are indeed inevitable, then we should plan a course of action. For some people taking action means devising endless preventative measures. Still others feel that taking precautions implies that they are not living in faith. Neither of these solutions displays a balanced trust in God.

We must examine where our confidence lies. Are we really trusting in God? Trusting does not mean that we should purposely step into pitfalls. If we see ourselves heading for danger, we can take precautions to avoid the situation. We lack faith when we feel that we alone possess the strength to conquer any temptation. Humbly anticipating our weaknesses will allow us to bypass harsh consequences.

WISE WAYS  Is there a specific temptation you face continually during the week? Take steps to avoid situations that foster that behavior before you come to them.

Lord, help me to live wisely by knowing my weaknesses and anticipating dangerous situations .

adapted from The One Year® Book of Proverbs by Neil S. Wilson, Tyndale House Publishers (2002), entry for March 22

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Without temptation no sin would be committed; and without temptation no holiness could be attained. The human wrecks that seem beyond all capacity of repair and refitting, and victorious athletes of righteousness whom their fellowmen adore, are alike the products of temptation.
JAMES HASTINGS

Content is derived from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation and other publications of Tyndale Publishing House