In Proverbs 14:15 we are admonished to be prudent and not naïve. “The naïve believes every thing, but the prudent man considers his steps.”
This scripture has one interpretation and many practical applications. The interpretation can be summed up in a warning we can all comprehend. To be wise we must look before we leap.
A similar principle can be found in Proverbs 18:13. “He who gives an answer before he hears, it is folly and shame to him.” Being hasty to speak or act before hearing or checking out all the relevant facts can produce painful and costly results.
Can you identify with the following scenario? It is a Saturday afternoon and you are in your front yard surveying a large maple tree that is overtaking your yard, sprouting overhanging limbs that will potentially do damage to your roof, and putting out a huge root structure that could damage your house’s foundation and driveway. The situation is bad and only going to get worse. The tree must be cut down and the stump and root structure must be removed.
Out of nowhere comes an unmarked and beat up truck with a crew of scruffy individuals. The driver emerges from the cab. This is your lucky day as they were in the neighborhood on another site and the job was cancelled. You can have them solve your problem right now for only a fourth of what you were quoted by a reputable tree removal company.
This deal is too good to be true. You jump on it.. An hour later they have cut off several limbs, but the boss tells you they have to stop. They will return Monday with some additional equipment. He demands half his fee.
That was the last time you saw this crew and your money. You have leaped before looking, made a deal before checking.