Do Not Be Fooled by "the Wisdom of This World" - THE BIBLE'S VIEW OF SELF-IMPORTANCE

 The Bible helps us to have a balanced view of ourselves. It acknowledges that a degree of self-love is proper.  Jesus said:  "Love your neighbor as yourself," which means that we should give a reasonable amount of attention to our needs.  (Matthew 19:19) However, the Bible does not teach that we should elevate ourselves above others.  Rather, it states: "Do noting our of contentiousness or out of egotism., but with humility consider others superior to you." - PHILIPPIANS 2:3; read ROMANS 12:3. 

Today, many people who are considered wise would ridicule the Bible's counsel about self-importance.  They would say that considering others superior to you would make you vulnerable and that others would take advantage of you. Really, though, what fruitage has the self-centered attitude promoted by Satan's world produced? What have you observed? Are selfish people happy?  Do they have happy families? Do they have genuine friends? Do they have a close friendship with God? From what you have seen, which produces the best results-following the wisdom of this world or the wisdom found in God's World?

People who follow the advice of those whom the world views as wise are like a father who asks a fellow tourist for directions when both of them are lost. Jesus said regarding the "wise" men of his day: "Blind guides is what they are. If, then, a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit." (Matthew 15:14) Truly, the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. 

The Bible's wise counsel has always proved to be "beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for correcting, for disciplining in righteousness." (2 Timothy 3:16) How thankful we can be that Jehovah, through his organization, has protected us from the wisdom of this world! (Ephesians 4:14) The spiritual food he has provided gives us the strength we need to cling to the standards of his Word.  What a privilege it is to be guided by the infallible wisdom found in the Bible! 

Next time: Improve Your Study Habits!

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