Why ‘Trust Yourself’ May Be the Worst Advice Ever

Human nature can lead us to some pretty problematic (and even horrific) things, particularly when we avoid adhering to a concrete moral code.

Solomon affirms this reality again and again throughout Proverbs, reminding us in Chapter 28, verse 26 (NIV) that “those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe.” So who are you trusting in?

Listen to today’s devotion below:

Many people today are buying into the lie that they can successfully be their own moral barometers. Unfortunately, trusting only in ourselves can lead to all sorts of problems. God created us, loves us and expects us to open our hearts to Him.

Here’s what Solomon had to say in Proverbs 28:14: “Blessed is the one who always trembles before God, but whoever hardens their heart falls into trouble.”

We live in a culture that values material possessions, wealth and fame. Many go on a quest for these “victories” yet end up shorthanded, losing themselves and/or abandoning their happiness along the way.

This is where hardened hearts can lead us; this is what can happen when we avoid seeking wisdom from the very source who created it.

With this in mind, Proverbs 28:22 offers perhaps the most stirring and convicting reminder: “The stingy are eager to get rich and are unaware that poverty awaits them.”

The world tends to only think of poverty as a monetary deficiency, but there are many other ways in which we can become “poor.” Just consider the fact that there are scores of people running around with millions of dollars and large homes, but with deeply impoverished souls.

Seeking God, as Solomon tells us, helps us to discover and understand “what is right.” Proverbs 28:5 proclaims, “Evildoers do not understand what is right, but those who seek the Lord understand it fully.”

It’s essential we all think a bit deeper about what it really means to have success. Life on earth is short, but eternity is, well, eternal. Let’s be better.

I’ll leave you with Proverbs 28:6: “Better the poor whose walk is blameless than the rich whose ways are perverse.” {eoa}

Billy Hallowell is a journalist, author and the director of communications and content for PureFlix.com. He’s also the former senior editor at Faithwire.com and the former faith and culture editor at TheBlaze.

This article originally appeared at pathufind.com.