What practical steps can we take to seek wisdom over folly? A Dire Comparison: Proverbs 17:12 “Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool in his folly.” – Proverbs 17:12 The Holy Spirit paints a vivid picture: crossing paths with an enraged bear is preferable to entanglement with unchecked foolishness. The warning is not poetic exaggeration; it is a sober, literal caution that folly destroys everything in its reach. Why Folly Is So Dangerous • Folly blinds the heart (Proverbs 12:15) and resists correction. • It spreads rapidly, influencing families, churches, and communities (Proverbs 26:4-5). • It invites divine discipline and natural consequences (Galatians 6:7-8). Practical Steps to Seek Wisdom 1. Reverence the LORD • “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). • Daily acknowledge His holiness and authority; confess sin quickly. 2. Ask Persistently • “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5) • Make prayer for wisdom a non-negotiable part of your mornings. 3. Immerse in Scripture • “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (Colossians 3:16). • Read, memorize, and meditate; wisdom saturates the mind that is steeped in God’s Word. 4. Choose Companions Carefully • “He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” (Proverbs 13:20) • Prioritize friendships and mentors whose lives display humility and obedience. 5. Guard Input and Influences • “Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise” (Ephesians 5:15-16). • Evaluate entertainment, social media, and conversations; sever sources that mock righteousness. 6. Practice Thoughtful Obedience • “Get wisdom, get understanding… do not forget my words” (Proverbs 4:5). • Pause before decisions. Weigh actions against Scripture, then obey promptly. 7. Seek Godly Counsel • “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22) • Invite mature believers to speak truth, even when it stings. 8. Redeem Time • “The days are evil” (Ephesians 5:16). • Schedule study, service, rest, and fellowship intentionally; idle moments breed foolish choices. Supporting Scriptures That Reinforce the Steps • Psalm 1:1-2 – Delight in God’s law; avoid the seat of mockers. • Proverbs 16:16 – Wisdom is better than gold. • Proverbs 19:20 – Listen to advice and accept instruction. Living It Out Daily • Start each day with a brief prayer: “Lord, I fear You and ask for Your wisdom today.” • Maintain a reading plan that covers both Old and New Testaments. • Schedule regular check-ins with a trusted believer for accountability. • Review decisions each evening—note where wisdom prevailed and where folly crept in, then adjust tomorrow’s course. The path of wisdom is not elusive; it is laid out plainly in Scripture and empowered by the Spirit. Take each step deliberately, and the growl of the enraged bear will remain a distant sound while the peaceable fruit of wisdom fills every corner of life. |
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