Sharpen Your Axe First

Daily Devotional – Wednesday, February 28, 2024
If the axe is dull and one does not sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength; but wisdom brings success.
Ecclesiastes 10:10 (NKJV)

One of the best skills I learned in school was making an outline before writing an essay or answering an exam question. Understanding the problem or task and spending time to come up with an appropriate strategy for solving it is critical to success.

If the Axe is Dull

Millennia ago, King Solomon taught the importance of applying wisdom in preparing to deal with life’s challenges. He said, “If the axe is dull and one does not sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength; but wisdom brings success.” (Ecclesiastes 10:10).

In many rural communities, axes are very important when felling trees. Nothing, however, is as time-wasting and frustrating as using a blunt axe. You will spend a lot of time and energy cutting down the tree. Woe unto you if it is a hardwood that has seen many years!

Whet the Axe

Yet, that is how we sometimes deal with problems. Instead of analyzing a matter to know the root cause and come up with viable solutions, we attempt to solve it with the first idea that comes to mind. We do not value scrutiny and critical thinking because we want quick solutions. Sadly, some shortcuts end up being the longest routes to the destination.

The late former American President, Abraham Lincoln, once said, “Give me six hours to chop down a tree, and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” If you are facing a challenge or have to make a difficult decision today, sit back, examine the problem from different angles, come up with a plan, and then solve the problem.

Sharpen Your Axe First

If you apply the wisdom of refining your intellect before facing your problems, you will be successful. In this regard, a life of prayer, Bible study, and total reliance on God will serve you well. Sharpen your axe before felling your trees.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, teach me to apply the wisdom of critical analysis and thorough preparation before I make decisions and take action.