Is Man's Wisdom Enough?

You've heard sayings like, "Experience is the best teacher" or "Practice makes perfect." Old proverbs, some would call them. The question for today is, "Are these sayings really true?" Another way of phrasing the question would be, "Are our own experiences and efforts all we need for success in life or business?"

I suppose the answer depends, at least in part, on our definition of success. For many in the U.S., success is defined as wealth, position, possessions and sometimes philanthropy. In third world countries, it may simply be food for one's family. In the eternal view of things, the measure may be the fruit of our lives, i.e., how did we use what we earned or were given to serve mankind.

Here is a paraphrase of what I remember a preacher said once , "I've visited many self-made men and women as they lay on their death beds and I can't remember one of them expressing remorse that they didn't spend more time working. Their remorse was almost always for not spending more quality time with their friends and families."

Man's wisdom may say success comes from working harder and longer than others, from putting one's career above the needs of others or from using other people as stepping stones to success. God's wisdom says in Proverbs 3:5-7, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and depart from evil."

So, is man's wisdom enough? What would you say?