“Whoever ignores instruction despises himself,
but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence.”
– Proverbs 15:32

There is a story of a battleship on exercise at sea in bad weather. The captain was on the bridge and the conditions were foggy. Just after dark, the lookout spotted a light on the starboard side. The captain asked if it was steady or moving. The lookout replied the light was steady, meaning they were on direct collision course with that ship! The captain ordered the lookout to signal the other ship, “Change course 20 degrees; we are on collision course.” The signal came back, “Advisable for you to change course.” The captain signaled, “I am the captain; change course 20 degrees.” “I am a seaman second class; you had better change course 20 degrees” came the reply. The captain was furious and sent back this response, “I am a battleship; change course!” Back came the signal, “I am a lighthouse, your call.”

What a great story for us as coaches. It’s easy to become hard-headed and stubborn. After all, we are in charge and we know the direction we need to be going. Too often, we get caught up in our passion for the job and neglect the advice and counsel of others. As we see it, the situation requires more determination and persistence. In truth, we may need a better understanding and perspective of the situation. Proverbs 15:32 reminds us that when we fail to listen to God’s instruction, we are heading for danger. Stubbornness and ignorance can easily shipwreck our plans as well as our careers. God wants what is best for us. Not only should we seek His counsel, we should follow it.

Heavenly Father, You are our Great Counselor. Teach me Your ways. Strip from me all pride and selfishness. Give me wisdom and the desire to follow Your instruction. In Jesus name, Amen.