Thinking Ahead

"A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself;
but the simple pass on, and are punished" (Prov 27:12).

Foresight. Planning. Thinking ahead. Teenagers are not usually known for these things. I would imagine that many times, when you have gotten yourself into a sticky situation, you respond, “I guess I just wasn’t thinking!” Perhaps you tend to be always rushing around at the last minute or late for everything because you don’t plan ahead to get the things done that you need to. Perhaps you end up being involved in activities with friends that you would rather not because you didn’t look ahead.
The ability to look ahead and see the results of your decisions is a big part of maturity. It’s when distinguishes a mature adult from an immature young person. It also demonstrates spiritual discernment when a wise (godly) young person can look ahead and see the results and ramifications of his actions and make wise choices.
This proverb encourages us to be wise and avoid compromising or sinful situations. You know which friends are going to get in trouble—don’t hang out with them! You know what kinds of activities are going to end up being sinful—don’t even start them! You know which television shows and movies are going to end up polluting your mind and eyes—don't watch them!
Many times young people end up destroying their lives or testimonies because they did not look ahead or think about the future. They simply acted on the spur of the moment and made foolish choices that led to sinful actions. A wise young person thinks ahead and exercises spiritual discernment. A foolish young person doesn’t, and he pays dearly for it. Be a wise and godly teen: think ahead.