Bible students are well aware of the emphasis given to wisdom in the book of Proverbs. However, not only is wisdom exalted and encouraged, but numerous references are made to fools. Very often, a contrast between the wise and the foolish is given in the same verse. Consider how fools are described in this inspired book.
Fools Oppose Gaining Wisdom – “…fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Prov. 1:7) They don’t think they need either one, but already have all the answers. They also think that staying ignorant is the easy way, but learn often too late what fools they have been. They even die for lack of wisdom. (Prov. 10:21)
Fools Bring Grief To Their Loved Ones – “…A foolish son is the grief of his mother.” (Prov. 10:1) Children often believe they have to experience the various vices the world offers, and when they do, shame is brought to their loved ones. “A fool despises his father’s instruction.” (Prov. 15:5)
Fools Spread Malicious Gossip – “…Whoever spreads slander is a fool.” (Prov. 10:18) They believe that ruining someone’s good name makes them look better, and don’t realize that such hurts the gossiper as much or more than the person they are slandering.
Fools Do Evil For Entertainment – “To do evil is like sport to a fool…” (Prov. 10:23) His joy does not come from doing good, helping the needy, and comforting the suffering, but from abusing and taking advantage. They even mock at sin. (Prov. 14:9) (Of course, all fools don’t do this, but this is one way of being a fool.)
Fools Are Blind To The Truth – “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes.” (Prov. 12:15) You cannot tell him anything, or show him a better way. He is a “know it all.” “He who trusts in his own heart is a fool.” (Prov. 28:26)
Fools Are Hot Tempered – “A fool’s wrath is known at once.” (Prov. 12:16) He has the proverbial “chip on his shoulder,” and dares anyone to cross him. “…a fool rages and is self-confident.” (Prov. 14:16)
Fools Destroy Their Friends – “…the companion of fools will be destroyed.” (Prov. 13:20) Even fools have an influence on others. They delight in their friends making a fool of themselves.
Fools Are Troublemakers – “It is honorable for a man to stop striving, since any fool can start a quarrel.” (Prov. 20:3) Peace does not bring him happiness, but his delight is found in quarreling, bickering, and fighting.
Fools Never Learn – “As a dog returns to his own vomit, so a fool repeats his folly.” (Prov. 26:11) When one learns that something is hurting him, wisdom dictates that he quit, but a fool cannot be convinced to stop. It’s foolish to even think you can correct a fool. “Understanding is a wellspring of life to him who has it. But the correction of fools is folly.” (Prov. 16:22)
0 Comments