The Blind Side
Most every day I read a chapter in the book of Proverbs and I have noticed how often there is a warning about not being wise in our own eyes. Even though we all nod our head in agreement, this is harder to do than it seems. In chapter 16, verse 2, it says that, “all the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit.” If you are a part of the human race, (which I believe you are), then this verse applies to you. In other words, we believe we are right most of the time, and if there is a problem, then it is usually the fault of someone or circumstance outside of ourselves. Daily we go to the mirror on the wall and ask: “Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all, (or, who is correct after all?)? We expect to hear: “of course, you are, my lord.” But, when we hear that someone else is, we get upset and have a hard time believing it is true.
During the time of the Roman Empire, the senate would organize a spectacular parade to welcome and honor the emperor or general upon return from a victorious battle. The streets would be lined with people praising him for his victory and lauding Rome for her greatness. The victor would ride a spectacular chariot pulled by four horses. He would wear a laurel crown and carry a laurel branch in his right hand. In his left hand, he carried an ivory scepter with an eagle at the top; the symbol of triumph. It was a pageantry fit for a god, but alongside him would ride a slave who would whisper in his ear; “respice”, which is translated, “look behind”. He was to be reminded that he was a mere mortal and not a god, and that his victory was due to his family and the army that followed him into battle.
We all need a friend that will speak the truth in love. That will correct us, when needed, and challenge our “rightness”. Each of us have blind areas. All who drive cars know that there is a place where the mirrors do not reach. We call them “blind spots”. Before making a turn, we must be careful that another car is not in the area. There is a position in American football that is called the safety. The job of the safety is to protect the blind spot of the receiver or quarterback. The Bible says that riches can blind us, as does jealousy and even success. If we do not have someone to protect our back, we can be side-swiped by the enemy. This blind side is equivalent to pride, and pride precedes a fall.
Just as many times as there is a warning about being wise in our own eyes is the admonition to hear counsel. Heeding instruction is our “safety”. (11.12) The wise are those who listen to life-giving reproof. (15.31) Counsel insures that your plans will succeed. One is considered a fool who only expresses his own opinion and does not allow anyone to instruct and correct him (15.5, 22; 18.2) Instead of going forward with what seems right to you, pass it by someone whom you consider to be your mentor and friend. Seeking counsel will not slow you down, but will rather insure wisdom and success for the future. (19.20) Each of us have blind areas in our lives and we need to allow people to get close enough to be able to speak into these areas of our lives. “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” (27.17) Even though we may not like to be revealed, and confrontation can cause sparks, it makes us sharper and able to handle the blessings God has for us.
Scriptures to meditate on:
Proverbs 3.7; 12.15; 16.2; 18.2; 19.20; 21.2; 26.16; 27.17-18; 28.11, 26