16/02/2023 - WISE IN THEIR OWN EYES

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Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, And prudent in their own sight! Isaiah 5.21

Being wise in one’s own eyes was never good. The Bible warns: Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips (Proverbs 27.2). When you accomplish something relevant, praise the Creator because He has given you the necessary ability for such an action. But if, instead of giving God the glory for the help you received, you assume success as an act of the skill with which you have been endowed, you are lying. The good things come from the heavenly throne (James 1.16,17).

Some who are out of tune with Heaven say that they never make mistakes and trust their own perception of themselves. They can even perform the work in a spectacular way, but the Word of God declares: The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?  (Jeremiah 17.9). The Lord knows what He speaks, so give Him credit for your accomplishments. Then you will succeed in new opportunities (Proverbs 3.5-8).

It’s hard to find someone who is capable of self-criticism, because his heart makes him feel better than others. The Scriptures teach: The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector (Luke 18.11). If you consider yourself self-sufficient to do any work, you might think you don’t need God!

Because they have prospered, many people feel that they have more wisdom than others. However, if they try to examine them, they say that this perception is an illusion. What can be done for those who think they are superior? The Bible instructs: Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own eyes (Proverbs 26.5). Even if you don’t want to be disliked, this will happen to the proud one. If he continues to be taken in by the spirit of conceit, he will fall into disgrace!

Some people make a living doing what they didn’t even know, and because of this they think they have more understanding. It’s not good to be upset with such people, for their thoughts are pure vanity. Their heart won’t even let them reason; but if you love them, you must teach them to be wise. The Scriptures say: The rich man is wise in his own eyes, but the poor who has understanding searches him out (Proverbs 28.11). Let the poor man examine you, and not the one who boasts!

The wisdom of one who boasts for having special gifts can be a big trap for that person. If such person doesn’t fear God, sooner than he thinks, he will be surprised to know that he is not wise enough. The Word of the Lord warns: But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic (James 3.14,15). Warn the person who thinks he is very important. On this path, he will inevitably fall, because he denies God’s mercy. Be steadfast in the Lord’s teachings and commands!

Don’t be wise in your own eyes or think that you have innate prudence in you. Depend on the Lord, who chose you to do His will. Assume it as a special mission, crediting your calling to divine mercy. See what will happen to those who submit themselves to the Most High: Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time (1 Peter 5.6). Watch and pray so that the devil’s pride does not cast a shadow over your life. Be light in the Light!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares