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PROGRAM D-7387
Is there anyone in your life that you consider to be a foolish person? I imagine you can think of someone. It’s important for us to recognize foolish behavior and respond to it correctly. For example, the Bible defines a person who is foolish as:
Quick-Tempered
A fool is quick-tempered, but a wise person stays calm when insulted (Proverbs12:16).
It is foolish behavior to lose your temper. A foolish person will say and do all kinds of foolish things because of his/her temper. Their temper is often notorious.
Acts Impetuously and Without Regard for Consequences
Wise people think before they act; fools don’t and even brag about it! (Proverbs 13:16).
A wise man fears the Lord and shuns evil, but a fool is hotheaded and reckless (Proverbs 14:16).
Do you know someone who does or says whatever pops into his head, without any regard for how it affects his future, other people, his pocketbook, etc.? Foolish people have no regard for consequences; they live totally for the pleasure of the moment. And they brag about it!
Talks endlessly, brags, spouts off frequently
The wise person makes learning a joy; fools spout only foolishness (Proverbs 15:2 NLT).
A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions (Proverbs 18:2).
Proverbs 10:19 reminds us that “When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.” Jesus warned us that “men will have to give account on the Day of Judgment for every careless word they have spoken” (Matthew 12:36).
Foolish people have an opinion on anything and everything. Even though they may have very little knowledge, they always have an opinion. And of course, they are very vocal about their opinion with little regard for anyone else’s opinion.
Refuses Advice, Accountability and/or Discipline
A fool spurns his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence (Proverbs 15:5).
A fool never accepts advice or correction of any kind. They are unteachable. And they refuse needed disciplines in their lives. Disciplines like being on time, fulfilling their promises, being accountable for their actions, being dependable, following through and following up.
These are not very complimentary descriptions, are they? If you have some foolish people in your life, ask God to help you respond appropriately.