Title: Wisdom vs. Foolishness/ Topic: Price of Arrogance

Today’s Reading: Proverbs 13; Proverbs 14; Proverbs 15; Romans 11

Scripture: Proverbs 14:12; 15:10
12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.
10 Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path; he who hates correction will die.

Observation: These two verses from Proverbs capture a theme that is repeated throughout the book in many places. A wise person listens to correction. Even when it is uncomfortable, a rebuke is prized and heeded by those who have wisdom, and there is no age limit on listening to the advice and correction of others. A fool, on the other hand, follows what seems right to him. He trusts completely in his own logic and reasoning and holds it in higher esteem than the opinions of others; even his elders. Both verses make it clear that the outcome of that way of thinking (what the Bible calls foolishness) lies in destruction.

Application: Even though I am 53 years old, I still gain wisdom from listening to others (including my parents, who don't even know God). Many people add to my wisdom, especially those who have a close relationship with the Lord, even if they are younger than I. I have been spared much pain in life because I have been willing to listen to both rebukes and encouragements.

Prayer: Father, thank you for teaching me this lesson and for the blessing it has been in my life. May I always heed it and never be too proud to receive truthful correction from others, regardless of their age. And make me a fountain of wisdom for others, that they may be spared the pain of reaping the results of poor choices.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.