Proverbs 12:15 (ESV) – The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.

One of the common themes that runs through humanity is that every person thinks they’re right about everything they believe. If you ask people if they think they are right on everything they believe, they’ll acknowledge that they don’t believe they are correct on everything. But they don’t know anything they are wrong about that they believe. In other words, we think everything we think is right, or we wouldn’t think it. But most of us are wise enough to acknowledge that while we couldn’t point out anything we’re wrong about, that it is probable we are wrong about things. 

What is my point in this? Our passage today describes the difference between a fool and the wise. The proverb says, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.” 

The fool is considered the person who is right in his own eyes. This isn’t referring to what we discussed earlier about everyone believing they’re accurate in their beliefs. It’s referring to the one who doesn’t think it is possible they could be wrong. The fool thinks they are infallible in their thoughts and live like that. They don’t want to hear from anyone or listen to other people’s experiences. This is why the fool so often gets into trouble. 

The wise person is marked by their willingness to listen to others. They seek advice. They listen to people with experience and knowledge. The result? They prosper. They don’t experience as many self-induced troubles because they learn from others. 
Is your life marked by wisdom or foolishness? Do you have people that you can get advice from? When is the last time you sought wisdom and advice from others before making a big decision?

People of wisdom don’t believe they are infallible in their thoughts. They surround themselves with others who they can learn from. God provides us this wisdom for our flourishing and good.

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Reflection & Journal:
- What are some examples of foolish decisions people often neglect counsel on?
- Why does the fool not seek counsel? Why does the wise person seek it?
- How can this passage help you to avoid foolish decisions in the future?