In the science world, researchers gather data, analyze it, and reach certain conclusions about what it means. Their work might lead to decisions about better medical treatments, stronger building materials, or some other recommended change. In the spiritual realm, there is a similar process if we desire to reach spiritual maturity. We consider various principles, giving heed to truth and directing our steps accordingly. However, an important warning for scientists is even more significant for followers of the Lord: Do not rely on incomplete data!

The verse quoted above states the same warning in different terms. If we are wise in our own eyes, we will not have the proper response to evil. This has always been the method of the enemy of our souls, who entices us to make decisions based solely on our own data. This is how Eve failed when she was deceived by the serpent. She was told certain things about the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. However, as she considered what to do with that information, she did not include the most significant data point: God’s direct command not to eat from that tree. Eve concluded that the tree was good for food (Gen. 3:6), whereas God had stated the exact opposite: Do not eat (2:17).

The remedy is to “fear the Lord and depart from evil.” If we are wise in our own eyes, we will see no reason to fear the Lord; and if we do not fear the Lord, we will not even detect what is actually evil. Five times in the Book of Proverbs we are warned about the influence of our own eyes. This reference, the first of those five, is the basis for all right decisions. When we are tempted today to trust our own data, let us instead heed the Spirit of God. He indwells every believer and always faithfully reminds us to be guided by the fear of the Lord.