My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion.

(Proverbs 3:21 NIV)

Five doctors decided to go duck hunting one afternoon — a general practitioner, a pediatrician, a psychiatrist, a surgeon, and a pathologist. 

When the first bird flew overhead, the GP raised his shotgun but hesitated. “I’m not quite sure it’s a duck.  I think I’ll need a second opinion.” While he deliberated, the bird vanished from sight.

Minutes later, a second bird appeared. The pediatrician aimed carefully, then lowered his gun. “I’m sure it’s a duck, but what if it has ducklings somewhere?  I need to research this more carefully.” The bird flew away unharmed.

Next, the psychiatrist spotted a bird and raised his gun.  But doubt crept in. “I know it’s a duck….but does it know it’s a duck?”  As he pondered the question, his opportunity vanished.

Then came the fourth bird. Without a moment’s hesitation — BOOM! — the surgeon fired.  Then he turned to the pathologist and said, “Would you mind checking to see if that was a duck?”

This story describes a tension we all face. Some people charge ahead, operating on the principle that “he who hesitates is lost.” Others analyze endlessly, believing that “look before you leap” is the safest way to live. Which approach is right?

The Bible gives both sides. “How long will you lie there, you lazy person? When will you get up from sleeping?” (Proverbs 6:9) warns against paralysis and passivity.  But, “Those who act too quickly become poor” (Proverbs 21:5) cautions against reckless haste.

Both warnings are true. There is danger in rushing ahead without thought, and there is equal danger in overthinking until opportunity passes us by.  Jesus understood this balance perfectly. He called his disciples to follow him immediately, without delay.  But he also taught them to “count the cost,” to think soberly about commitment before taking the leap.

True wisdom lies in knowing when to pause and when to proceed. Faith doesn’t mean being reckless, but it also doesn’t mean being frozen by fear or indecision. A wise person seeks God’s guidance, plans carefully, and then steps forward in trust.

Prayer: Father, I confess that sometimes I’ve been paralyzed by overthinking, and other times I’ve leapt ahead without seeking your will. Give me the wisdom to find the right balance — to plan carefully, but also to act courageously when you call. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Alan Smith
Reprinted with permission from Alan Smith’s Thought For the Day