Scripture
There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. -Proverbs 16:25
Self-reliance is extremely dangerous because it often leads to unpleasant consequences. The real danger of walking this way is that it convinces us that our way is right. In our minds our logic is so sound, so we assume it came from the Lord. We tend to measure it by the peace we have in our own judgments. The truth is human logic and self-justification deceives people into choosing the wrong path. Let's face it, Beloved, our intuition is often flawed and it guides us to make choices that 'seem' right, but ultimately leads to a disastrous end. Here is the caveat, the end doesn't always look like a disaster. Some endings look successful and favorable according to human standards, but they are not God's expected ending. The scriptures emphasize that God has already prescribed a plan for our lives. Self-reliance will lead us out of His will for our lives, which is the ultimate disastrous end.
Self-reliance can introduce an alternate reality. The way that seems right is a deception. Perhaps someone is grappling with a decision concerning a career choice, pursuing a romantic relationship, or even a lifestyle. If decisions are constantly made without seeking the Lord, then the person is likely already outside of His will. Therefore, they may no longer feel the desire to seek Him concerning the path for their life. They may equate their trust in themselves with trust in the Lord because they no longer feel convicted. Human judgment is limited and often biased by selfish desires. The problem with human wisdom is that it makes us think we know better than God. We are not the exception to God's commands.
Death in this can be physical, but also broken relationships, spiritual death, missed purpose in life, and ultimately separation from God. Beloved, we are admonished to trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean not to our own understanding. We must submit our ways to Him so that He can make our paths straight. (Proverbs 3: 5-6). Don't follow your own desires and ignore divine guidance. It ends in regret and destruction. We must look beyond temporary, self-serving choices to consider long-term, Godly consequences. This is true wisdom.
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