Listening for Wisdom: The Path to Our Promises

Throughout history, we see examples of people missing out on what could have been theirs due to their own choices. One of the most notable stories is that of the original Israelites. Despite being led by Moses to the very doorstep of the Promised Land, many did not enter. Their ultimate downfall? Disobedience and a spirit of complaint. They often questioned the authority placed over them, asking, “Why do we have to listen to you?”

You might wonder how this relates to us today. Just like the Israelites, we have the opportunity to receive guidance and wisdom from those God places in our lives. Unfortunately, just as they did, many people today struggle to set aside their pride and ego in favor of listening to that guidance.

Reflecting on my personal experiences, I realize that for most of my life, my dad was not just a parent but also my pastor. He had a unique dual role, teaching me essential life lessons while also guiding my spiritual growth. I recall a particular moment when he sought to correct me on an issue. My immediate response was one of defiance: “Why? Just because you say so? What if I believe differently?” In hindsight, I realized my dad was right, and had I chosen to listen, I could have avoided unnecessary heartache and disappointment.

This pattern of resistance is all too common. Instead of leaning into the wisdom offered by those who care for us, we often resist and forge our own paths—sometimes at a significant cost. God places experienced, wise individuals in our lives for a reason. They may not always tell us what we want to hear, but they often speak the truth we need to confront.

Instead of waiting for the lesson to come through hard experience, why not take a step back and listen? Opening our hearts to the voices of wisdom around us can lead us toward our promises rather than the regrets of missed opportunities.

As we navigate life’s journey, let’s seek to be humble enough to listen and wise enough to act on that guidance. In doing so, we may just find ourselves walking in the fullness of what was intended for us all along.