In what ways can we avoid wasting wisdom on unreceptive individuals? The Verse at a Glance “Do not speak to a fool, for he will despise the wisdom of your words.” – Proverbs 23:9 Who the Word Calls a Fool • Proverbs 1:7 – A fool “despises wisdom and discipline.” • Proverbs 12:15 – He “is right in his own eyes.” • Psalm 14:1 – He “says in his heart, ‘There is no God.’ ” • The common thread: a settled, stubborn refusal to heed God’s truth. Why Wisdom Is Wasted on the Fool • Hardheartedness rejects correction (Proverbs 15:12). • Pride turns counsel into an insult (Proverbs 9:7-8). • Mockery drowns out reason (Proverbs 13:1). Recognizing When to Withhold Words • Repeated scoffing after patient explanation (Matthew 7:6). • Conversations reduced to quarrels, not questions (2 Timothy 2:23). • A lifestyle openly devoted to wickedness with no hint of repentance (Titus 3:10-11). Practical Ways to Preserve Wisdom • Test the soil first – ask simple, probing questions to gauge interest (Luke 8:15). • Offer concise truth, then watch for response before going deeper (Proverbs 17:27-28). • Share testimony more than argument; stories soften hearts (Revelation 12:11). • Redirect energy toward “faithful men who will be qualified to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2). • Keep a door open, but let the fool make the next move (Proverbs 26:5). Speaking with Grace When Silence Isn’t Possible • Answer briefly, avoiding sarcasm (Proverbs 15:1). • Stay gentle, aiming for repentance, not victory (2 Timothy 2:24-26). • Step away before anger ignites (Proverbs 20:3). Encouragement from Our Lord • Jesus remained silent before Herod when mockery, not sincerity, filled the room (Luke 23:8-9). • Yet He gladly explained truth to Nicodemus, the Samaritan woman, and all who showed the slightest openness (John 3; 4). • Follow His pattern: guard pearls from pigs, but pour living water for the thirsty (Matthew 7:6; John 7:37-38). |
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