Common Sense: Sound Practical Judgment for Everyday Life

Common sense represents the natural mental ability we possess to think and make reasoned choices based on practical experience and divine wisdom, rather than being driven solely by emotion.

Understanding Common Sense

Common sense is sound, practical judgment concerning everyday matters. We have been given this natural mental ability to think and make reasoned choices based on the facts, desired goals and accumulated experience, together with insight and discernment that result from knowing and putting into practice the truth of God's Word, rather than immediately responding to the whims of passion. Emotions are a valid expression of our humanity that may have input but must not control our responses. Observe the lives of others, besides analyzing your own progress, and realistically trying to predict the outcome of any proposed course of action, to see if the consequences are what you want. Textbook theory needs tempering with practical, real life experience and common sense.

Biblical Wisdom and Common Sense

Throughout the book of Proverbs, wisdom and common sense is contrasted with foolishness and the lack of common sense besides not learning from mistakes (Prov 2:1-8, 3:13-14, 7:7, 8:12-14, 13:16, 16:22, 24:30, 26:11). To be of value, common sense must be acted on.

Our human reasoning must be submissive to the Lord and if there is a discrepancy, His way must win out. The Bible's advice is, "Apply your heart to getting wisdom and understanding…If any of you lack wisdom, he should ask God…and it will be given to him" (Prov 2:2, 23:23; Jas 1:5). Without God's input "Whatever a man does is wise in his own eyes" yet it may be contrary to the divine way for "There is a way that seems right to man but it ends in death" (Prov 3:7, 12:15, 14:12; Isa 5:21).

'Give me common sense to apply your rules to all I do' – Psalm 119:125

The prodigal son made some rash, bad decisions and when he came to his senses he realised what he had walked away from (Lk 15:11-21). Thus the Bible counsels, "Trust in the Lord and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths", rather than relying on your own knowledge or common sense for God's ways are often far higher than what we can comprehend (Prov 3:5-6; Isa 55:8-9).

Divine Guidance vs. Human Understanding

The tension between human wisdom and divine guidance is a recurring theme throughout Scripture. While God has equipped us with the ability to reason and make sound judgments, we must always recognize that our understanding is limited. The Bible consistently warns against the pride of relying solely on our own intellect and experience. Instead, we are called to seek God's wisdom above all, acknowledging that His perspective transcends our limited view of reality. This balance between using our God-given common sense while maintaining humble dependence on divine guidance is essential for righteous living.

Reflection and Application:

Consider areas where you may be relying too heavily on your own understanding rather than seeking God's guidance
Reflect on past decisions made in the heat of emotion versus those made with calm, reasoned judgment
Evaluate how well you balance practical experience with biblical wisdom in your decision-making
Ask God for increased discernment to apply His principles to all areas of your life