The book of Proverbs is an invaluable source of practical and spiritual wisdom. In particular, Proverbs 19:20 invites us to reflect on the importance of listening to counsel and receiving instruction to become wise in our lives. This verse, though brief, contains a profound message that resonates with the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Through this blog, we will explore this biblical passage from the perspective of LDS doctrine, using the standard works (the Bible, the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price) to delve deeper into its meaning and application in our daily lives.
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## **The Text of Proverbs 19:20**
**"Listen to counsel and receive instruction, that you may be wise in your latter days."** (Proverbs 19:20, King James Version).
This verse invites us to two key actions: listening to counsel and receiving instruction. Both are essential to attaining wisdom, especially in the later years of our lives, which the text refers to as "your latter days." But what does this mean in the context of LDS doctrine? Why is it so important to follow these principles? We will explore this below.
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## **1. Listening to Counsel: The Importance of Humility**
Listening to counsel requires humility. In LDS doctrine, humility is a fundamental virtue that allows us to recognize that we do not know everything and that we need guidance from God and His servants. The Book of Mormon emphasizes this in **Alma 32:12**, where we read:
**"Yea, it is necessary that you humble yourselves before God, and bring forth fruit meet for repentance, that you may also experience a change in your heart."**
Humility allows us to be open to receiving counsel, whether from the scriptures, Church leaders, our parents, or others who seek our well-being. President Russell M. Nelson has taught that "humility is the antidote to pride" and that it allows us to draw closer to Christ.
Additionally, in **Doctrine and Covenants 1:14**, the Lord warns:
**"And the arm of the Lord shall be revealed; and the day cometh that they who will not hear the voice of the Lord, neither the voice of his servants, neither give heed to the words of the prophets and apostles, shall be cut off from among the people."**
This verse underscores the importance of listening to counsel as a way to protect ourselves spiritually. When we ignore divine counsel, we become vulnerable to negative influences and distance ourselves from the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
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## **2. Receiving Instruction: The Role of Education and Lifelong Learning**
Receiving instruction involves a commitment to lifelong learning. In LDS doctrine, education is not limited to secular knowledge but includes spiritual growth. The Lord has said in **Doctrine and Covenants 88:118**:
**"And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith."**
This verse encourages us to seek knowledge both from the scriptures and other trustworthy sources. Instruction not only prepares us for earthly life but also for eternal life. The prophet Joseph Smith taught that "the glory of God is intelligence" and that "whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection" (**Doctrine and Covenants 130:18-19**).
Moreover, in **2 Nephi 28:30**, we find a key principle about progressive revelation:
**"For behold, thus saith the Lord God: I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom."**
This passage reminds us that spiritual learning is a gradual process. We must be willing to receive constant instruction, even when we do not fully understand the purpose of each teaching.
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## **3. Being Wise in Your Latter Days: The Eternal Perspective**
The ultimate goal of listening to counsel and receiving instruction is to be wise in our "latter days," that is, in the later years of our lives. From an LDS perspective, this not only refers to old age but also to our preparation for eternal life. In **Alma 34:32-34**, Amulek warns us:
**"For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors... Therefore, do not procrastinate the day of your repentance."**
This passage reminds us that our mortal life is a time of preparation. Every decision we make, every counsel we follow, and every teaching we receive brings us closer to or further from our eternal destiny. Wisdom is not just a desirable attribute; it is a necessity for attaining exaltation.
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## **4. The Importance of Divine Counsel: Scriptures and Living Prophets**
In LDS doctrine, divine counsel is received primarily through the scriptures and living prophets. In **Amos 3:7**, we read:
**"Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets."**
This verse underscores the importance of following the teachings of the prophets, who are called by God to guide us in these latter days. President Nelson has taught that "in a world filled with confusion, the prophets are a source of light and truth."
Additionally, in **2 Timothy 3:16-17**, we are reminded:
**"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works."**
The scriptures are an essential tool for receiving divine instruction. Through their study, we can learn the principles that will guide us toward wisdom and eternal life.
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## **5. Practical Application: How to Follow Counsel and Receive Instruction**
How can we apply Proverbs 19:20 in our daily lives? Here are some practical suggestions:
1. **Study the Scriptures Daily**: Dedicate time each day to read and ponder the scriptures. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in your study.
2. **Follow the Living Prophets**: Pay attention to the teachings of Church leaders during general conferences and other meetings.
3. **Seek Counsel from Leaders and Family**: Do not hesitate to ask for advice from priesthood leaders, parents, or worthy friends. Humility is key to receiving guidance.
4. **Engage in Lifelong Learning**: Attend Institute classes, seminary, or any other opportunity for spiritual education.
5. **Reflect on Your Decisions**: Before making important decisions, seek the Lord's guidance through prayer and scripture study.
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## **Conclusion**
Proverbs 19:20 is a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to counsel and receiving instruction to become wise in our lives. From the perspective of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this verse resonates with the teachings of the scriptures and living prophets. By following these principles, we not only prepare for the challenges of mortal life but also for eternal life.
May we strive to be humble, seek knowledge, and follow divine counsel so that, at the end of our days, we may be counted among the wise who have prepared their lives to be with God. As the prophet Nephi teaches in **2 Nephi 31:20**:
**"Wherefore, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life."**
May this be our ultimate goal as we follow the principles of Proverbs 19:20. Amen.
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