If you
ever been called a fool by someone, you know those fighting words imply that
you have a lack of good judgment (or sense), and are stupid (or silly). The
book of Proverbs (in the Bible) has a
lot of practical advice on how to avoid being this kind of person. Are you wise
or foolish? Check the criteria below to find out which one you are:[i]
1.
“People sometimes
lie to hide their hatred, but saying bad things about someone is even more
foolish.” (10:18)
2. “Fools
always think their own way is best, but wise people listen to what others tell
them. Fools are easily
upset, but wise people avoid insulting others.” (12:15-16)
3.
“Be friends with
those who are wise, and you will become wise. Choose fools to be your friends,
and you will have trouble.” (13:20)
4. “A
quick-tempered person does stupid things, but it is also true that people don’t
like anyone who quietly plans evil.” (14:17)
5.
“Fools refuse to
listen to their father’s advice, but those who accept discipline are smart.”
(15:5)
6. “Fools
don’t want to learn from others. They only want to tell their own ideas… Let
people finish speaking before you try to answer them. That way you will not
embarrass yourself and look foolish. (18:2, 13)
7.
“People ruin their
lives with the foolish things they do, and then they blame the Lord
for it.” (19:3)
8. “People
who refuse to argue deserve respect. Any fool can start an argument.” (20:3)
9.
“Wise people save
the nice things they have; fools use up everything as soon as they get it.”
(21:20)
10. “People
who think they are wise when they are not are worse than fools.” (26:12)
11.
“It is foolish to be too
confident. Those who ask for advice are wise and will escape disaster.” (28:26)
“Sometimes you gotta play the role of a fool to fool the fool who thinks they are fooling you.” (Anonymous)[ii]
[i] All
verses are taken from the Easy-to-Read Version (ERV) of the Bible.
[ii] Sources used:
·
“Don't Be a Fool”
(http://www.jimfeeney.org/dont-be-a-fool.html)
·
“Fool”
from Dictionary.com
Topic suggested by my
wife, Bobbi Kinker.
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