Proverbs 22:17-18 — Listen to the words of the wise; apply your heart to my instruction. For it is good to keep these sayings in your heart and always ready on your lips.

“Listen to the words of the wise; apply your heart to instruction.”

That’s from Proverbs, and there is so much wisdom packed into those few words.

You know, sometimes it can feel a little embarrassing—or maybe overwhelming—when people start giving you advice. But God often puts people in our lives who are wiser than we are. People who have walked roads we haven’t and who genuinely want to help us.

And we have a choice.

We can say, “I’ve got it. I don’t need your help.”

Or we can say, “Thank you.”

I’ll be honest—I tend to lean toward, “I’m fine.” But if I’m honest, there’s usually a little pride hiding in there.

The other day, I was struggling. My son had probably woken up twenty times during the night, and I desperately needed help.

I started talking with some friends who are much more experienced in motherhood, and they immediately said, “Oh no, Bri, he’s overtired. Cut that nap before bedtime. Keep him up a little longer.”

Try this. Try that.

I was taking notes like a middle-schooler getting ready for an exam.

“Okay. Yep. Got it.”

And wouldn’t you know it? I followed their advice, and he slept through the night.

I just sat there thinking, Wow… wisdom really works when we welcome it.

Because growth often begins where pride ends.

God places wise people around us for a reason. They’re not there to control us—they’re there to help us. Their experience can become our encouragement if we’re humble enough to listen.

So don’t be so quick to rely only on yourself. Sometimes the breakthrough you’re praying for is waiting on the wisdom you’ve been resisting.

Today, lean in. Listen well. And don’t miss the gift God may be giving you through someone else.

A MOMENT TO REFLECT

• Who has God placed in your life to offer wisdom and encouragement?
• Is pride ever keeping you from asking for or accepting help?
• Can you think of a time when listening to wise counsel made a positive difference in your life?
• What area of your life could benefit from the experience of someone who’s walked that road before?
• What is one practical step you can take today to listen well and receive the wisdom God may be offering through others?