Walking in Wisdom Pt. 1Намуна

Don’t Be Like the Foolish

Wisdom requires knowledge, but it surpasses mere intellectual understanding. It’s about integrating knowledge into our lives, living it out in humility and reverence for God.

Paul instructs us in Ephesians 5:15 to walk not as unwise but as wise, steering clear of foolishness. This dichotomy between wisdom and foolishness is crucial. Scripture often illustrates the fool as one who lives as if there’s no God, as seen in Psalm 14:1 and Psalm 49:11. This kind of life disregards eternal realities, focusing solely on the temporal.

However, as believers, we must be vigilant. Have there been days when we lived as though God didn’t exist? Neglecting prayer and Scripture study is akin to living a foolish life. Wisdom is not just about knowing God exists but living daily with this awareness.

Another trait of the fool, as highlighted in the Bible, is the refusal to accept instruction. Proverbs 17:10 and 10:8 contrast the response of a wise person to correction with that of a fool. The wise are receptive and teachable, while fools are stubborn and unyielding. Teachability is a key marker of wisdom, a willingness to learn and grow in the truth of God.

Foolishness is also marked by pride. Proverbs 26:12 and 3:7 warn against the dangers of being wise in one’s own eyes. True wisdom fosters humility, recognizing our continual need for God’s guidance and teaching. It’s not about self-aggrandizement but about seeing ourselves as small compared to God’s greatness.

The Bible describes the fool as living carelessly and impulsively, without consideration of the true meaning of life or the will of God (Proverbs 13:16, 14:16). Wisdom, on the other hand, is characterized by careful, deliberate living, an acute awareness of God’s presence and a desire to please Him in all things.

Martin Lloyd-Jones, the late 20th-century preacher, describes the fool as being governed by feelings, desires, and uncontrolled zeal, lacking in thoughtful consideration and discernment. Wisdom is the antithesis: a life well-considered, governed not by fleeting emotions or desires but by a steadfast commitment to God’s will and ways.

It is a sobering question to ask the Lord, but have you ever asked God, “Lord, where have I been living like a fool?” Do you think you're wise in your own eyes or wiser than those around you? May this be a warning to you, today. Spend some time before you go back to whatever it is that you are about to do and pause. Ask God to reveal your foolish ways, repent, and thank Him for His grace.