Snap judgments ∙∙

Snap judgments ∙∙

The one who states his case first seems right until the other comes and examines him. – Proverbs 18:17

1 Kings 3:16-28

Two women came to the king to have an argument settled. “Please, my lord,” one of them began, “this woman and I live in the same house. I gave birth to a baby while she was with me in the house. Three days later, this woman also gave birth. We were alone; there were only two of us in the house.”

“But her baby died during the night when she rolled over on it. Then she got up in the night and took my son from beside me while I was asleep. She laid her dead child in my arms and took mine to sleep beside her. “

“And in the morning, when I tried to nurse my son, he was dead! But when I looked more closely in the morning light, I saw that it wasn’t my son at all.” Then the other woman interrupted, “It certainly was your son, and the living child is mine.” “No,” the first woman said, “the living child is mine, and the dead one is yours.” And so they argued back and forth before the king.

Then the king said, “Let’s get the facts straight. Both of you claim the living child is yours, and each says that the dead one belongs to the other. All right, bring me a sword.” So a sword was brought to the king. Then he said, “Cut the living child in two, and give half to one woman and half to the other!”

Then the woman who was the real mother of the living child, and who loved him very much, cried out, “Oh no, my lord! Give her the child – please do not kill him!” But the other woman said, “All right, he will be neither yours nor mine; divide him between us!”

Then the king said, “Do not kill the child, but give him to the woman who wants him to live, for she is his mother!” When all Israel heard the king’s decision, the people were in awe of him, for they saw the wisdom God had given him in rendering justice.

Solomon’s Wisdom in Judgment

Solomon, known for his exceptional wisdom, often faced disputes that required careful and insightful judgment. His skill in resolving conflicts extended beyond just gathering facts; he also examined the motives and hearts of those involved. Solomon’s approach remains a timeless example of how wisdom involves not only knowledge but also an understanding of human nature.

The Danger of Snap Decisions

Have you ever experienced buyer’s regret? Imagine you’re shopping for a new car. You visit just one dealership, listen to the salesperson praise a particular brand, and make a quick decision without checking out other options. Later, you realize that a similar car from a different manufacturer offers superior features. Regret kicks in, and you find yourself saying, “It seemed right to me at the time.”

This scenario shows why thorough research and careful thought are essential before making decisions. Rushing into decisions without considering alternatives often leads to regret.

The Importance of Open-Minded Investigation

Making wise decisions involves seeking out and evaluating multiple perspectives. Open-minded investigation encourages us to explore different ideas and compare them. It is wise to balance the information we receive and “cross-examine” it, ensuring we are not influenced solely by one narrative.

Solomon explains in Proverbs 18:17: “The first to state his case seems right, until his opponent begins to cross-examine him.”

This verse emphasizes the importance of listening to both sides of an argument. The initial impression might seem convincing, but further scrutiny often reveals a more nuanced truth. As Warren Wiersbe aptly notes, “Don’t believe the first thing you hear about a matter because it may be wrong.”

In Proverbs 18:13, Solomon warns, “Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish.”

This wisdom warns against forming conclusions or responding without fully understanding the situation. Rushing to judgment without listening carefully is both foolish and shameful.

REFLECT & PRAY

Wise individuals scrutinize information closely and probe it thoroughly. It is prudent to be cautious and not easily convinced by the first side of an argument.

Father, as I reflect on my life, I regret many poor decisions I have made. Teach me to be wise and to listen to many counselors.

INSIGHT

The Importance of Strategic Thinking in Life’s Battles

Life often feels like a battleground, filled with challenges, losses, and moments of discouragement. These struggles can leave us hurting, grieving, and searching for direction. To navigate these difficulties, we need to think strategically and make wise plans for everyday life. Solomon’s wisdom provides timeless guidance, highlighting the importance of being teachable and seeking counsel.

The Value of Being Teachable

One of Solomon’s greatest lessons is the value of humility and the willingness to learn. Wise individuals consider the opinions of others, seek advice before acting, and accept correction when they make mistakes. As Bruce Waltke states, “Sensible people give weight to the opinions of the wise, that is, they take ‘counsel’ before taking action, and accept ‘rebuke’ after a mistaken action.”

However, many children of the King fall into the trap of self-deception, believing they are always right. This mindset leads to stubbornness and an unwillingness to accept correction. Solomon warns that such attitudes are foolish.

Proverbs 12:15: “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man is he who listens to counsel.”

Proverbs 16:2: “People may be pure in their own eyes, but the LORD examines their motives.”

In modern terms, the saying “Two heads are better than one” highlights the importance of seeking advice and teamwork. Wise people acknowledge their own limitations and turn to others to fill in their gaps.

The Role of Counsel in Overcoming Obstacles

A wise strategy is essential for overcoming life’s obstacles. As Constable explains, “The wise person is not completely self-reliant. He recognizes his own imperfection and looks to others to supplement his deficiencies. ‘Wage war’ means to seek to overcome any obstacle one may face in life. Wise strategy is always more important than mere strength.”

Solomon repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance and surrounding oneself with wise counselors:

Proverbs 11:14: “Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers.”

Proverbs 20:18: “Plans succeed through good counsel; don’t go to war without wise advice.

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Proverbs 24:6: “Don’t go to war without wise guidance; victory depends on having many advisers.”

These verses emphasize the importance of teamwork and thoughtful preparation. Wise guidance isn’t just a luxury; it’s a vital part of winning life’s battles.

The Lifelong Pursuit of Wisdom

For the children of the King, the ultimate source of wisdom is the Word of God. The Scriptures offer timeless principles that equip us to overcome challenges and live victoriously. However, grasping and applying these principles necessitates effort, discipline, and a commitment to lifelong study.

2 Timothy 3:16: “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.”

Psalms 19:7: “The instructions of the LORD are perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.”

The Scriptures, alongside the insights of those dedicated to studying and teaching them, are invaluable guides in navigating life’s challenges. They offer the clarity and purpose needed to overcome obstacles.

Strategic thinking, humility, and a willingness to seek counsel are vital for success. Solomon’s wisdom teaches us that self-deception can affect anyone, and victory comes through collaboration, careful planning, and reliance on the Word of God. Embracing these principles equips us to face life’s battles with confidence.

Wise decision-making goes beyond merely gathering information; it involves reflection and discernment. Taking time to ponder leads to a deeper understanding and more deliberate choices. The wise are not easily swayed by the first argument they hear; instead, they critically evaluate information for accuracy and truth. The ability to make sound decisions is grounded in humility and a willingness to learn. By seeking diverse perspectives, reflecting deeply, and relying on the Father’s guidance, we can avoid hasty judgments and live with greater wisdom and clarity.

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© Dr. H 2025