“The simple believes every word, but the prudent considers well his steps…A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself, but the simple pass on and are punished” (Proverbs 14:15, 22:3).
Our modern maxim, “He went where angels fear to tread” captures the essence of these two proverbs. Courage is a virtuous and needed trait. Recklessness without discerning forethought is not.
Two things are markedly different between a prudent man and a reckless one. First, the prudent considers well his choices before he makes a decision. Second, when a prudent man foresees the probability of disaster, he does not recklessly disregard his insight; instead, he acts appropriately and wisely.
There is no virtue in being undiscerning. There is no prudence in making bad decisions while foolishly believing you will be the exception to its inevitable consequences.
Be prudent.
