Today’s Reading, Proverbs 13-15
Focal Scripture: Proverbs 14:15 “The inexperienced one believes anything, but the sensible one watches his steps.”
Going through life gives you experiences. These experiences can be beneficial when leading others and being in similar situations. I know from working with students as long as I have I have seen almost every situation imaginable. When I first experienced them I was trying to figure out what do and the best way to handle it biblically. I was stressed and was unsure of what the negative impacts of my decisions could possibly be on people involved.
Now that I have been through many situations I have the experience to know what to expect. I have wisdom on my side. I have seen the good and the bad. In today’s reading the author tells us that the inexperienced will believe anything. Which is true and I can tell you that personally. For instance I never experienced people who claimed to be biblical leaders act and behave contrary to scripture on purpose. I thought it wasn’t possible because of the calling and the vetting process we must go through. I never experienced it so I thought people were not being accurate in their experience.
However, now I can declare through my experience that watching your step around leaders in all settings is important. I have learned that through my experience that not every leader is good and has good intentions. The biggest lesson I learned is how to not lead. To have a heart that embraces those who are different. To live out biblical values publicly and privately.
I tell you this personal story because I don’t want you to waste experiences on your journey. Everything matters and everything is a teachable moment. Take the negative experiences you have been through and leverage them to make you wise. Learn from them and be better than what you experienced.
On a personal note if you have been spiritually/verbally abused by church leaders handle it biblically. Even if others do not, it’s your responsibility to bring it to light. It is hurtful when you’re ignored and it is even worse when those in authority allow it to happen. However, take this experience and use it for God’s glory. This happens more than you know by unqualified leaders but it doesn’t happen everywhere. Don’t blame God for the behavior of others.
This experience will help you to sympathize with others who have been let down by poor leadership. Grow from it and trust the sovereignty of God.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Proverbs 16-18
