In what ways can we avoid being "fools" who "die for lack of judgment"? The Verse in Focus “The lips of the righteous feed many, but fools die for lack of judgment.” — Proverbs 10:21 Grasp the Core Truth • Righteous words are life-giving; foolish neglect of sound judgment is deadly. • Scripture treats this literally: rejecting wisdom brings real, tangible ruin (Proverbs 1:32). Cultivate a Hunger for God’s Word • Daily, intentional reading (Psalm 119:105). • Memorize and meditate—truth lodged in the heart shapes choices (Joshua 1:8). • Let Scripture, not culture, set definitions of right and wrong (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Stay Teachable and Correctable • “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to counsel” (Proverbs 12:15). • Welcome godly rebuke—view it as protection, not intrusion (Proverbs 9:8-9). • Keep asking for wisdom; God promises to give it generously (James 1:5). Choose Your Influences Wisely • Walk with the wise and become wise; companion with fools and suffer harm (Proverbs 13:20). • Prioritize fellowship where Scripture is honored—church, small groups, Christian mentors. • Filter voices: books, podcasts, social media—do they align with Philippians 4:8 standards? Guard Your Tongue • Righteous lips “feed many”; careless speech starves hearers and self (Ephesians 4:29). • Pause before speaking—ask, “Will this build up?” • Replace venting with prayerful, season-with-grace words (Colossians 4:6). Walk in the Fear of the LORD • “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7). • Reverence shows up in obedience: quick repentance, consistent integrity, honest dealings. • Maintain awe by recalling God’s holiness in worship and in creation. Practice Discernment Daily • Evaluate decisions through the lens of Scripture and prayer. • Seek multiple godly counselors for major choices (Proverbs 15:22). • Discern motives—ask God to expose self-interest masquerading as wisdom (Hebrews 4:12). Put Wisdom Into Action • Apply what you learn immediately—knowledge unused calcifies into pride. • Serve others with your gifts; feeding many with righteous words begins at home, church, workplace. • Track God’s faithfulness: journaling answered prayers and wise outcomes reinforces future obedience. Living these patterns keeps us from the tragedy Proverbs 10:21 warns about, replacing foolish ruin with life-giving influence. |
    |