Fool’s Gold

“To argue with a man who has renounced the use and authority of reason, and whose philosophy consists in holding humanity in contempt, is like administering medicine to the dead, or endeavoring to convert an atheist by scripture.”

 ü Thomas Paine is the author of the pamphlet, Common Sense, which was influential in the American Revolution.

Have you ever met an idiot? Either their many destructive actions or unkind words figuratively place the word “stupid” on their life. These people think what they are doing or saying to others is valuable like rare jewels. But in the end all their glittering appeal just turns out to be a large pile of Pyrite (commonly known as “fool’s gold”).

If wisdom is your goal in life, Proverbs is a book you should study. Below, God lays out everything a person needs to know in being foolish or wise. (Here are my favorites):

1.  The wise benefits from knowledge while the foolish take pleasure in stupidity. (Proverbs 10:23)

2.  The wise are careful with motive while the foolish are gullible and avoid correction for wrong things done. (Proverbs 14:15, 15:12)

3.  The wise seek knowledge (and value wisdom above wealth) while the foolish have an abundant supply of thoughtlessness. (Proverbs 15:14, 16:16)

4.  The wise have a positive response to correction while the foolish have a negative response to punishment. (Proverbs 17:10)

5.  The foolish blame God for their failure instead of themself. (Proverbs 19:3)

6.  The foolish reject good advice instead of accepting it. (Proverbs 23:9)

7.  The wise control their anger while the foolish unleash it on everyone around them. (Proverbs 29:11)

8.  The wise keep peace while the foolish stir up irritation. (Proverbs 29:8)

9.  The foolish endanger their health with their negative words. (Proverbs 18:6-7)

10.     The wise rely on God’s wisdom while the foolish trust in their own abilities. (Proverbs 28:26)

11.     The foolish verbally lash out when they are caught doing wrong. (Proverbs 17:12)

12.     The foolish will be guided by an existence of hardship. (Proverbs 26:3)

13.     The wise have great advice with their patience while the foolish are not good counselors with their quick temper. (Proverbs 24:5-7)

After reading the above list, does your loving Heavenly Father see you as a fool or a wise individual? If you’re finally ready to get off the merry-go-round of defeat and addiction (to what hurts you), just reach out and grasp the hand of God.

You were the one that strayed away from Him. He’s been waiting here for you all the time. There are professionals, family, and friends that only want the best for you. Don’t ignore them again. Put a plan in action, and do what must be done. Choose to be a success because you’ve got an excellent support system.

*Adapted from the article, “Wisdom and Foolishness,” from The Life Application Bible, New International Version edition.