The War on Wisdom Sample

Among the profound teachings in the book of Proverbs, we see many verses focusing on the comparison between a wise man and a fool. Much attention is given to the characteristics and actions of a fool. This is not so we can learn how to become a better fool, but rather to teach us how to seek wisdom and avoid the pitfalls of foolishness in our own lives.

Proverbs 26, verses 1 and 8, admonish us even further – not only should we not be fools ourselves, but we should be mindful to not give honor to fools. This brings to mind the story of “The Emperor’s New Clothes”, where an entire kingdom of people not only play the part of fools but do so out of fear of judgement from a very foolish king. It isn’t until the very end of the story, when a child speaks the truth, that the king's incredulous behavior is exposed.

There are plenty of people in our culture who, regardless of position, power, or influence, regularly play the part of the fool, yet seem to have a massive following. We must seek the wisdom of the Lord daily, to not only guard our own actions, but to not fall prey to the foolish ways of others. In Matthew 10:16, Jesus tells his disciples “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” Today, more than ever, the words of our Saviour ring so very true.