Get the Whole Story

Get the Whole Story

Ps Peter Lewis

I often share about how much I love the book of Proverbs. All the wisdom Solomon provides can help us live productive, peaceful, joyous, and fruitful lives.

One of my favourite ‘nuggets of truth’ from Solomon is how easy it is to be convinced of the first story you hear.

“What’s wrong with that?” you might ask.

Let me share a funny tale with you.

I was once upset with our Prime Minister after someone told me he had chosen not to wear a suit on Anzac Day. The person who informed me was offended, and I joined in their offence. How disrespectful to our fallen soldiers! I thought, but later discovered the Prime Minister had hiked the Kokoda Trail on Anzac Day! I went from thinking he had disrespected our lost heroes to realising he did something which showed deep respect (and, of course, he couldn’t wear a suit whilst hiking the trail!).

This amusing example highlights what Solomon warned us against. Proverbs 18:17 says, “The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him.”

It is so easy to hear a story and instantly form a belief, when in fact, we need to always remember we’ve heard one part of the story.

When someone comes to you and shares what they’re going through, it’s wise to remember you’re only hearing their side of the situation. Have a ‘Proverbs 18:17 mindset’ and don’t commit to something without hearing the other side.

I have wasted time and emotional energy (and burnt my reputation in the past) acting on someone’s report, only to find out they had unintentionally—or conveniently—left out information which put the situation in a very different light.

I could have saved myself from looking and acting foolish if I kept Solomon’s principle in mind from the start.

As we continue to walk and grow in our lampstand calling, I encourage you to learn from my mistakes and Solomon’s wisdom and try to get the complete story!