How can we avoid being "mockers" in our pursuit of wisdom today? The key verse “A mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning.” (Proverbs 14:6) Defining a mocker • Treats truth with contempt and derision • Rejects correction (Proverbs 13:1) • Sits in an attitude God warns against (Psalm 1:1) Why mockery blocks wisdom • Pride replaces the fear of the LORD that starts knowledge (Proverbs 1:7) • Grace is withheld from the proud (James 4:6) • Spiritual realities stay hidden from an unreceptive heart (1 Corinthians 2:14) Practical ways to avoid mockery today Submit to Scripture • Accept every passage as authoritative (2 Timothy 3:16-17) • Let the Word test you, not vice versa (Hebrews 4:12) Cultivate humility • Depend on God for insight (James 1:5) • Value God-given teachers (Ephesians 4:11-12) Welcome correction • Receive rebuke as a gift (Proverbs 9:8-9) • Grow through discipline (Hebrews 12:11) Guard speech and tone • Speak without sneer or sarcasm (Ephesians 4:29) • Show patience toward the slow to grasp truth (2 Timothy 2:24-25) Choose companions wisely • Walk with the wise (Proverbs 13:20) • Avoid chronic cynics who stir contempt Practice gratitude and praise • Thank God for revealed truth (Psalm 95:1-8) • Replace scoffing with worship Result: discerning knowledge When mockery is laid aside, knowledge flows freely as promised. A teachable, Spirit-led heart hears, understands, and obeys, building on rock (Matthew 7:24-25). |
    |