Proverbs 19:20, “Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end” (KJV).

Great is the need for this proverb. Many people in our society, some of God’s people among them, are wasting their lives because they are squandering opportunities to improve themselves. Specifically, they will not listen to God nor to the wise who have long followed the guidelines found in this proverb.

The book of Proverbs describes the kinds of people who refuse counsel and instruction.  Among them are those who harden themselves against efforts made for their betterment (29:1), fools who hate knowledge (1:22), the reckless who live carelessly (5:9-14), the wicked who live for the here and now (11:7), scoffers (15:12) and such like. It is sad but true that, in every age, there are those possessed with self-confidence regarding the future who have no reason to be so (12:5; 26:12).

Our proverb’s exhortation implies that such people must first break with their present self-willed, undisciplined ways in order to start improving themselves. It is not just speaking of consulting friends before acting. It demands that there be a sharp contrast between two periods of their lives, the present and the future. Hence, the readers must accept that they are currently in need of improvement if indeed they are to be wise in the future. Its words are obviously written to stimulate and spur its reader(s) to needed action. What they said to the original readers they say today.

Our proverb implies a source of wisdom. God is the ultimate source of wisdom (2:6-9).  This would include the words of the wise recorded in the book of Proverbs (1:2-6). The “counsel” mentioned in our proverb is also generally found in a “multitude of counselors” (11:14; 13:10; 15:22).

Our proverb implies a proper attitude before the counsel and instruction that all men need. Humility (11:2; 15:33), meekness (Jas. 1:21), readiness of mind (Acts 17:11), and self-distrust (Jer. 1:4-12) will aid one in hearing and receiving counsel and instruction.

Our proverb implies that one must have obedient faith in its teaching. After all, the fruits (wisdom) it promises are future. The effort it commands is now. Wherever and whenever we encounter it, properly heeded, it aids us in preparing for the future. We can never think that we have arrived when it comes to all the wisdom we need in life.

Finally, our proverb implies one of two ends for all men. When men choose the world and its ways as their portion they will one day face fear, calamity, distress and anguish in this life and/or the next (1:24-32; Rom. 2:5-14). When men receive and follow the wise counsel and instruction of the Lord and His people they are building a future wherein they can walk with the Lord and His people, in this life and the next. One is presently not as wise as one should be. Are you seeking wisdom? Are you wiser than you were last year at this time?

Assembling ourselves together (Heb. 10:25).

Gathering to hear God’s word (Acts 10:33).

Opportunity to grow in Christ (1 Pet. 2:1-2).

Saving power of the gospel (Rom. 1:16).

Preaching the word (2 Tim. 4:2).

Edifying the saints with the gospel (Acts 20:32).

Looking unto Jesus (Heb. 12:1-2).

Minding things of the Spirit (Rom. 8:5).

Exposing the works of darkness (Eph. 5:11).

Enduring faith (Heb. 10:36-39).

Taking time to be holy (1 Pet. 1:13-17).

Interceding in prayer (1 Tim. 2:1).

Now is the day of salvation (2 Cor. 6:2).

Go and teach all nations (Matt. 28:19).

Preparations have been made, and our meeting begins today. Brother Steve Wallace is here and has prepared himself to preach the word of God. The elders have prepared this time for our edification and for evangelism in this area. We hope, by now, you have also prepared to be present for the gospel lessons that will be preached.

Let us encourage each other to use our time well this week, and be an active part in this gospel effort.