While I'm not a fan of doing everything by committee, the proverb is right in its advice. When power and control rests with one person alone, they become blind when there is no one to consult in making decisions for a people. When speaking of a nation, it takes many to represent the variety and diversity that exists across the millions of citizens. While this proverb was written in times before democracy, it still speaks to the importance of humility on the part of a leader. The leader must recognize that they don't know everything... that they cannot be the expert on all that the people struggle with... and that they can't be on the front line and a strategist in the war room at the same time. To be a great leader, one must be open and humble, listening to counsel from all sides. Then that leader must have the wisdom and discernment to know which path to take from the many choices that come from the multiple advisers. Leadership is not a solo act. It requires a circle of trusted friends and colleagues who are willing to engage and to help that leader lead.
Readings: Numbers 24:1-25:18; Luke 2:1-35; Psalm 59:1-17; Proverbs 11:14
