The Folly and Danger of Self-Conceit
John Humphrys, LL.D. Proverbs 3:7 Be not wise in your own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. I. WHAT ARE THE USUAL SIGNS, IN YOUNG PEOPLE, OF THEIR SETTING TOO HIGH A VALUE UPON THEIR OWN UNDERSTANDING? 1. In a general inattention to the means of instruction and improvement. 2. A spirit of contradiction strongly marks this failing. It is a strong symptom of self-conceit when young people are hasty in their judgments, and confident in their own opinions. 3. When, even in matters of importance, they are above asking or taking advice of others. 4. By rashly condemning the opinions and maxims which have received the stamp of time and experience. Youth should guard against the fascinations of novelty. 5. The worst sign is neglecting to ask counsel of God (James 1:5). II. WHENCE IS IT THAT YOUNG PEOPLE ARE PECULIARLY EXPOSED TO THIS EVIL? 1. They commonly know but little of themselves. 2. They can have but little acquaintance with the world. 3. They are much exposed to the imprudent and sinful flattery of others. III. SOME CONSIDERATIONS TO PUT YOUTH SERIOUSLY UPON THEIR GUARD AGAINST BEING WISE IN THEIR OWN EYES. 1. Consider what little foundation there is for this vain conceit. 2. Nothing obstructs progress in true wisdom more effectually than the opinion that you are wise already. 3. If you are wise in your own eyes, you will not be so in the sight of God and man. 4. Nothing more surely betrays young people into certain ruin. Guard, then, against self-conceit. Watch and pray constantly against the spirit that works in character and life such fatal mischief. (John Humphrys, LL.D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. WEB: Don't be wise in your own eyes. Fear Yahweh, and depart from evil.