Psalm 118:8-9 “It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes.”
It is sensible to seek out a benefactor to help you along your career path, a person who mentors you, opens doors to new opportunities and influential leaders, and represents and defends you in high-level personnel discussions. But it becomes hazardous when you seek to please the benefactor (the “prince”) above seeking to please God. God’s ways are not man’s ways (Isaiah 55:8-9) and “the foolishness of God is wiser than men” (1 Corinthians 1:25). In other words, even the recommendations of a very good prince will conflict at times with God’s ways. Listen gratefully, but always check the advice against God’s Word. And choose your mentor carefully because some princes rely on subterfuge, back-stabbing, and relentless self-promotion to attain and hold their high positions. These princes will pass on their schemes to you. The verses in this study are intended to be an antidote to self-serving, worldly advice that will leave you in personal and spiritual ruin if followed to the end.
Father, thank you for surrounding me with many wise and experienced counselors who have provided guidance and help throughout the years. Yet my ultimate trust is in no human leader or organization, but only in you, Lord God. You are my refuge.
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