Proverbs 5.1-2 teaches that insight helps build discretion. Therefore, I should grow insights from experiences because experiential insight fuels discretion!
Discretion as a Guide
We’re listening in on a parent-child conversation in Proverbs 5.1-2.
But, given the topic in verse 3, the child is an adult.
As such, the parent wants to see discretion in the child.
Then, that discretion is guided by factual knowledge.
Interestingly, “my” is used twice in Proverbs 5.1. Thus, this parent is sharing personal insights.
So, most likely, the insights were picked up over time.
Additionally, the context is marriage in Proverbs 5.15-23. Probably, it’s part of this same conversation. Hence, the listener is an adult.
Therefore, this instruction isn’t for kids!
Specifically, the teaching is about interpersonal discretion. Most specifically, see Proverbs 5.3 for details.
Similarly, there’s a conversation in Proverbs 2.1-16. There, the desired outcome is also discretion.
Sow-Reap
The mental model for this advice is sow-reap.
Thus, I sow by building experiential insights. As a result, I reap discretion. As a result, I stay out of trouble!
Personal Insight
For me, I’ve been guided by several mentors. For example, my parents.
Next, my wife. However, don’t ask her how slow I am at learning!
In addition, I’ve benefited from mentors who gave sound advice.
Finally, I spend an hour or more almost every day being mentored from the Proverbs.
As a matter of fact, this blog is one outcome of that daily mentoring!
Think – Decide – Act
In Proverbs 5.2, the Hebrew word mezimmah is translated “discretion.” Most simply, it means a deep thoughtfulness.
In turn, that thoughtfulness produces deliberate actions. But, those actions must show interpersonal discretion.
So, I think carefully then act decisively. Thus, I use discretion. In fact, this is the “think slow” portion of think fast/think slow.
As expected, in Proverbs mezimmah is used in a positive way. For example, see Proverbs 1.4, 2.11, 3.21, and 5.2.
Conversely, it’s also used in the negative. For instance, read Proverbs 12.2, 14.17, and 24.8. As such, bad thoughts lead to bad actions!
Insight Fuels Discretion
Here in Proverbs 5.2 we see thoughtfulness paired with factual knowledge.
The takeaway? I suggest it’s the question “What can I do with what I know?”
Unfortunately, it’s not enough to be reflective. To add value, reflection must build experiential insight.
Additionally, I must move those insights into useful outcomes!
Leadership Insight
As a leader, I can stay out of trouble. To do so, I must pay attention to sound advice from mentors.
Conversely, I can get into trouble. You know, when I believe the rules don’t apply to me!
Likely, I think this way as a result of listening to poor advice. For example, from myself!
Then, through overconfidence, I convince myself I’m going to get away with this.
Actually, it’s easy to find examples of these lapses in ethical, moral, and rational behavioral. How? Just pick up the newspaper!
Unfortunately, sow-reap works in either direction. Thus, sow wisely-reap good. Or, sow dumbly-reap bad!
What am I missing?
What else is at work here?
First, it’s not enough to be intentional about personal and professional growth.
Second, it’s not enough to be reflective about daily experiences.
Third, it’s not enough to have trusted mentors.
A leader can be reflective but still experience disastrous outcomes in his or her career due to other problems.
For example, forming inappropriate conclusions causes problems. Next, holding cognitive biases. Temporal thinking is also a killer!
Finally, inexperienced or dishonest mentors are problematic. So, be careful who you listen to!
Apply This Today!
A sound character must be guided by reverence. In addition, it must apply the precepts.
As a result, a precept-driven character forms useful insights.
And, in the next step, insights guide my thinking. The outcome? Sound decisions and wise behavior.
Hence, experiential insight fuels discretion!
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