Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. Proverbs 3:7 NIV
A few years ago, there was a television show called Scorpion. The show was based on the true story of genius Walter O'Brien and his team of likewise gifted people who the government hired to solve problems. With an IQ of 197 (Einstein was 160), he is definitely the smartest person in the room and doesn't fail to let people know.
However, O'Brien's intellect has a downside; he lacks wisdom. Emotional intelligence is missing–he often appears insensitive and uncaring of others' feelings. While solving complicated problems, he harms others along the way.
While O'Brien may be an extreme example, we don't have to be geniuses to be wise in our own eyes. Whenever we perceive ourselves in such high regard, we elevate ourselves to the level of God. When He said, "You shall have no other gods before me," inflated images of ourselves and our importance are included.
Don't get me wrong; we should be grateful for our intellect and wisdom; they are God-given gifts. But regardless of how smart we think we are, our understanding pales to that of God–his knowledge is infinite (omniscient). Our sin begins when we fail to acknowledge God's wisdom is superior to ours.
God, we recognize you as the source of any wisdom we may possess. We give thanks for what we've been given and confess your wisdom exceeds ours. You brought creation into existence, know each of us by name, and your plans for us. Please help us to be humbled and amazed by you, and save us from the sin of ourselves. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
