Live as a Wise Man

Silas Bamigbola

I once had a friend who basked in the attention of numerous admirers, particularly because of his striking looks. It seemed like an enviable position to be in, with ladies vying for his affection even in our school days. Yet, amidst the allure of such attention, I couldn’t shake the feeling that there was wisdom to be found elsewhere, beyond the fleeting pleasures of superficial attraction. As the saying goes, you only find ants in sugary things.

In the Book of Proverbs, we are cautioned against living senselessly and succumbing to the allure of promiscuity. Proverbs 7 paints a vivid picture of the consequences of such folly, warning against the path of the foolish who are ensnared by the temptations of promiscuous behaviour. It’s a sobering reminder that true wisdom lies not in indulging every desire but in exercising restraint and discernment.

Moreover, Proverbs 31 exhorts men not to squander their strength on fleeting pleasures, including the pursuit of women. Instead, it calls us to channel our energy towards worthy endeavours, aligning ourselves with God’s divine purpose for our lives. There is a profound lesson here for men – to prioritize spiritual and moral integrity over temporary gratification.

Living as a wise man entails more than just avoiding the pitfalls of promiscuity; it requires a commitment to sexual purity and self-discipline. By guarding our hearts and minds against the seductive traps of lust and temptation, we preserve our strength for nobler pursuits. This is not about suppressing our natural desires but rather harnessing them in service of higher ideals.

One key aspect of wisdom is understanding the value of self-control. It’s about mastering our impulses rather than being mastered by them. This is echoed in Proverbs 25:28, which states, “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.” Without self-discipline, we are vulnerable to the destructive forces that seek to undermine our character and integrity.

Furthermore, Proverbs 6:25 advises, “Do not desire her beauty in your heart, and do not let her capture you with her eyelashes.” This verse serves as a reminder to guard our thoughts and desires, resisting the temptation to be swayed by external appearances. True beauty lies not in outward adornment but in the purity of heart and soul.

Living as a wise man means recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, and treating others with respect and honour. It means honouring commitments, respecting boundaries, and valuing relationships based on mutual trust and integrity. It’s about striving for excellence in all areas of life, seeking to fulfil our potential and contributing positively to the world around us.

In conclusion, to live as a wise man is to embrace the timeless wisdom found in the Book of Proverbs. It’s about cultivating a heart of discernment, a mind of understanding, and a spirit of self-discipline. By following the guidance of Scripture and staying true to our values, we can navigate life’s challenges with grace and integrity. So let us heed the wisdom of the ages and strive to live as wise men, honouring God and pursuing excellence in all that we do.