Biblical Answer

Question: Can I really trust my own instincts after this?

Answer

The Question of Trusting One's Instincts

When considering the trustworthiness of our instincts, we must acknowledge that our human nature is prone to error and deception. The provided text highlights the potential for blindness and deception in our relationships and decision-making processes. For instance, we may be blinded by loyalty, continuing to believe in the honesty of a friend despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. Similarly, we may be misled by our own innocence and ignorance, failing to recognize the flaws in our own thinking.

The Dangers of Self-Trust

In light of these vulnerabilities, it becomes increasingly clear that relying solely on our instincts can be a perilous endeavor. As the text suggests, our instincts may lead us down a path of deception and blindness. Moreover, our instincts may be influenced by factors such as loyalty, ignorance, or even a desire to avoid the truth. In such cases, trusting our instincts can lead to catastrophic consequences, as seen in the example of the person who received a warning about a family member's impending death, but chose to ignore it.

The Importance of Biblical Guidance

In contrast, the Bible offers a reliable and trustworthy source of guidance for navigating life's complexities. As Christians, we are called to trust in the sovereignty of God and the authority of His Word. By submitting ourselves to the guidance of Scripture, we can avoid the pitfalls of self-trust and instead rely on a higher authority. This is not to say that our instincts are completely untrustworthy, but rather that we must be cautious and discerning in our decision-making processes. By seeking to understand and apply God's Word, we can cultivate a deeper sense of trust and reliance on Him, rather than our own fallible instincts. Ultimately, trusting in God's guidance is a more reliable and trustworthy approach than relying solely on our own instincts.