Proverbs 13:12-14 “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when dreams come true, there is life and joy. 13People who despise advice will find themselves in trouble; those who respect it will succeed. 14The advice of the wise is like a life-giving fountain; those who accept it avoid the snares of death.” (NLT)
Today’s proverbs are full of wisdom and godly principles that will help you succeed in life.
First, hope is a powerful two-edged sword according to verse 12. When there is a delay concerning that for which we are believing, the heart is afflicted. But when that hope is realized and dreams come true, it produces life and joy. Whatever you do, keep believing! Don’t lose hope! Even though there might be a delay, the fulfillment could be just around the corner. You never know when a breakthrough might come. How many people have let the dream slip and if they had held on for just a little longer, the promise would have been possessed?
Second, the rest of today’s reading has to do with advice. There is one thing you can count on if you don’t pay attention to it and three things that will happen when you do. If you despise advice you’re headed for trouble. Thinking you are smart enough to figure everything out on your own without the input of others is a recipe for disaster. But if you will respect advice and listen to it, there is a better chance of success. There is also a fountain of life that will be a resource for you. Lastly, and maybe most importantly, you will avoid pitfalls. Pitfalls are stops in life that can set you back years. Think of the times you have thought or you’ve heard others say, “If only I had listened.” That is the statement of someone who rejected advice and ignored the signs and as a result paid a price. Be wise and seek out good advice from people you trust. It will produce good results in your life!