Monday, January 20 Whoever isolates himself . . . rejects all practical wisdom.​—Prov. 18:1.

[Áine]

Monday, January 20

Whoever isolates himself . . . rejects all practical wisdom.—Prov. 18:1.

 

Today, Jehovah may use family, friends, or the elders to support us. However, when we are hurt, we may be inclined to withdraw. We just want to be left alone. That is a normal reaction. What can we do to receive Jehovah’s support? Fight the urge to isolate yourself. When we isolate ourselves, our focus often narrows, and we begin to think only about ourselves and the problems we are going through. This type of thinking can affect the decisions we make. Of course, we all need moments to be alone, especially when confronted with tragic situations. However, if we were to isolate ourselves for an extended period, we could push away the very means that Jehovah is using to support us. So welcome the help of your family, friends, and elders. View them for what they are—Jehovah’s means of supporting you.—Prov. 17:17; Isa. 32:1, 2. w24.01 24 ¶12-13

[DancesWithWife]

I like the footnote for the word rejects. The footnote adds Or “shows contempt for.”  So not all who isolate are showing contempt for wisdom. They are hurting. We can be the tool that Jehovah uses by using discernment about a brother or sister who appears to be isolating themselves. My wife and I were just discussing this. What if we notice a brother or sister isolating themselves but we don't say anything or at least try to encourage them. Just as the text mentioned  "So welcome the help of your family, friends, and elders. View them for what they are—Jehovah’s means of supporting you" we also need to put ourselves in the position to be used by Jehovah.