In the book of Proverbs, wisdom is competence for daily living. Daily living according to God’s design for life and the world. So being wise is less about God telling you what to do and more about becoming the kind of person who knows what to do.

But to become that kind of person, you need others’ support and investment in your life. In other words, you don’t gain wisdom best in a classroom or from books. Sure, those can help and contribute to wisdom. But becoming wise is the forming of your heart. Your character.

In the book of Joshua, I find a foolproof way to grow in wisdom and make good decisions. Foolproof, meaning not being a fool and living contrary to or out of step with God’s good design for you, for life, and for the world.

Like Joshua, you need to hear one thing from three different people. In other words, in the mouth of two or three, a decision is confirmed.

As the leadership of Israel was passing from Moses to Joshua, Joshua needed much wisdom and courage. He didn’t find it by looking to himself. He found it by looking to God, to Moses, and to the people.

In Deuteronomy 31, Moses tells the Israelites and Joshua that Joshua will be their new leader. So Moses says to Joshua in the hearing of the people, “Be strong and courageous…” (31:7-8).

In Joshua 1, after Moses has died, God Himself says to Joshua, “Be strong and courageous…” (1:5-9). In fact, God says this three times to Joshua.

Finally, the people and their leaders say to Joshua, “Only be strong and courageous.” (1:15-18)

I have no doubt that Joshua was built up and confirmed in the decision he should make. To be strong and courageous and lead the people of Israel into the promised land.

If you want to grow in wisdom. If you want to become wise. If you want to be the kind of person who knows what to do according to God’s plans and desires for you. You need to seek to listen to God, a mentor, and those closest to you.

Some content themselves with only what they believe God is saying to them. They pull away from the safety that comes from trusted mentors, leaders, and loved ones who know them best.

Some content themselves with only asking a friend’s or peer’s advice. They miss out on the safety that comes from a trusted mentor or leader. This person can offer personal insight, valuable experience, and, when needed, gentle warnings.

And some content themselves with only a mentor’s counsel. They step away from the safety that comes from those who know them best. Who see them within the contexts of their home and family.

There is safety in numbers, in the way God makes us wise – men and women who know what to do. Seek to foolproof the important decisions in your life. Seek to hear from God, a trusted mentor (or leader), and the people closest to you.