I can remember as a kid taking advantage of April 1st, aka April Fool’s Day. Playing tricks on people until they realize what day it is always brought laughs (or being beat up). 🙂 Because I was so lovable and kind I was able to avoid the latter. Seriously, most people, when they realize the day lay aside their frustrations and join in the fun.
But being a fool or being called one is not anything to brag about. Below are just a few of the verses from Proverbs that have a very common theme: fools.
“Therefore, they must eat the bitter fruit of living their own way, choking on their own schemes. For simpletons turn away from me (wisdom)- to death. Fools are destroyed by their own complacency.” (1:31-32)
“Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others.” (12:15)
“Wise people think before they act; fools don’t-and even brag about their foolishness.” “Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.” (13:16,20)
“Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.” (17:28) Abe Lincoln: “It is better to keep your mouth shut and thought a fool, than to open it and remove all doubt.”
“The mouths of fools are their ruin; they trap themselves with their lips.” (18:7)
“Don’t waste your breath on fools, for they will despise the wisest advice.” (23:9)
There are more. Here is something for you to consider doing. Beginning today, read a chapter of Proverbs a day. By the end of the month you will have read through all of Proverbs. Take a pencil, pen, or highlighter that won’t bleed, and underline as you read. Find one verse each chapter to highlight for that day. When you read through the book again, use a different color highlighter and look for a new verse. Oh…look for the verses that talk about fools. Happy reading! Happy growing! And while you are at it, determine not to carry today’s joke beyond April 1.
Not my favorite day of the year, Bill, especially when I was teaching, but your wonderful suggestion about reading Proverbs isn’t the least bit foolish. Great advice!
Blessings!
I can imagine teachers were the brunt of a lot of jokes. But thanks for the encouragement!
There is always something to learn or be reminded of when reading Proverbs.
For sure and sometimes more than you bargain for!
Lots of great quotes, foolish acts and comments linger long after they are said or done. Often times they are brought up time and time again making the grave mistake even worse. Often times even though our gracious God is willing to forgive after we repent, whoever was offended is not willing to forgive. Please Father help us learn to tame our tongues, teach us to pray before we open our mouths.
Your prayer is spot on Gail. Nothing to add.
Bill, I literally love that chapter in Proverbs a day invitation.
And that’s no joke!
Sounds like you might be accepting that invitation Linda. Glad to hear it. Seriously 🙂