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Proverbs 18:1

As I was reading my Proverbs morning devotional the first verse I read was this one. And it immediately pricked my conscience. Here’s why.

I attended a baby shower with my wife and kiddos this past Sunday. Afterwards, my wife chided me for not being more outgoing; for not taking the initiative to go around the room and introduce myself. I argued that I am not a politician. Nor do I consider myself the most important person in the room. I am not going to run around introducing myself to people as if to say, “You don’t know me yet. But you should. And now you do!” Plus, when you are in a room of people who are actively making a choice to not include God In their lives, or are not choosing your congregation to do so, it is unbearably awkward and uncomfortable for both of us when they are introduced to the pastor. I would prefer to get someone’s name as we are filling our cups with juice and our plates with food. It just seems more organic. But, I also hate small talk. I am a horrible conversationist.

So, when I read this verse, I immediately thought, “Am I being selfish?”

Well, maybe. But, that’s not what this verse is talking about.

We have been studying a topic in our after church seminars this month: Discovering God’s Will. And, I thank Pastor Andy Stanley for his inspiration to me in delving into this topic and for his contribution to content, as well.

What this verse is really talking about is making decisions in isolation. Over and over again Solomon instructs is that there is wisdom and safety in the multitude of counselors.

When we start making decisions in isolation, that is a yellow flag. Solomon might even consider that a red flag event. When we notice that as a pattern, we need to ask ourselves if maybe we are afraid to receive counsel because it might direct the decision away from the direction we wanted it to go.

Leadership is not about making decisions for everybody. It is about leading others to make (not our, but) good decisions for themselves or for the organization.

Whatever you are going through, as you are in the valley of decision, both Solomon and I encourage you to do so in the context of seeking outside opinions on the matter.

Today, be blessed.

—Tom Nicholas