Briefing: Prudence is the ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason.

Dispatch (Assignment): How often in your day/shift do you use prudence? Write down some examples of prudence.

On the Street: One of the things I have enjoyed most about this study of Proverbs is the re-education I have received on some of these, seemingly lost, Biblical topics. Prudence is a word I remember my granddad using. Aside from his use of the word, I would not have been able to give you a correct definition of it.

Prudence is truly a word that associates well with wisdom. I feel wiser just by saying the word. To continue on our journey to greater Godly wisdom, we need to have a good knowledge and understanding of prudence. Webster gave us the knowledge by providing the definition, Solomon gives us an understanding by providing Proverbs.

Proverbs 8:5 (NIV), “You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, set your hearts on it.”

Proverbs 8:12 (NIV), “I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion.”

Proverbs 15:5 (NIV), “A fool spurns a parent’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.”

Proverbs 21:29 (NIV), “The wicked put up a bold front, but the upright give thought to their ways.”

Proverbs 22:3-5 (NIV), “The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty. Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life. In the paths of the wicked are snares and pitfalls, but those who would preserve their life stay far from them.”

Proverbs 26:4-5 (NIV), “Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him. Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.”

Prudence is a fairly simple concept, but a lost one.

Investigational Resources: Jesus was a prudent man. For investigational resources, I would suggest reading the Gospel of John and making notes of the acts of prudence you see displayed in His life.

Officer Safety Principle: Live a life governed by the teachings of the Bible. Be disciplined in carrying out those teachings with sound judgment (reason) that comes from God.

from The Book of Proverbs Through the Eyes of a Cop
©by Charles Gilliland. Used by permission.
Click here to check out the entire Through the Eyes of a Cop series!