August 17, 2026 -- Proverbs 14:15 -- Who are you believing?

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The simple believes everything,
but the prudent gives thought to his steps. Proverbs 14:15 ESV
 
A simple person is someone who claims to be open minded. He is so open-minded real wisdom falls right out of his head. He believes everything and everyone but is ignorant of the truth. It is a common trait among the people of God. In times of distress and hardship, even the community of faith want easy answers and quick solutions. The Bible is full of examples where the prophets of God spoke truth, and the people chose to believe lying prophets (I Kings 22:6-23; Jeremiah 28; Matthew 7:15-20 to name just a few examples).
 
The prudent are wise to the ways of God and shrewd in their dealings with world. Prudent men and women know the importance of critical thinking. Prudent men and women evaluate according to the word of God: the circumstances, the temptations, or the pressures of others. Even when, or perhaps, especially when, it is unpopular. Prudent men and women are prepared, like Elijah, and Jeremiah of the passages previously cited above, to stand alone and declare the truth of the word of God. It is hard. It is lonely. It is right.
 
Jesus told His followers: “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” John 16:33. Those who are in Christ are in the majority. Though the whole world stands against them. As is promised, “Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (I John 4:4). Now, prudent men and women, go and serve Jesus.
 
O God,
Thou hast done for me all things well,
   hast remembered, distinguished, indulged me.
All my desires have not been gratified,
but thy love denied them to me
when fulfilment of my wishes would have
proved my ruin or injury.
My trials have been fewer than my sins,
   and when I have kissed the rod it has fallen
   from thy hands.
Thou hast often wiped away my tears,
   restored peace to my mourning heart,
   chastened me for my profit.
All thy work for me is perfect,
   and I praise thee.
Excerpt from: “Choices” Valley of Vision: Puritan Prayers and Devotions
 
https://youtu.be/4SvctBsjC08?si=2156D-avX6t4a_zi Black Sheep
 

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