"Fools Are Self-Deceived"

 

(The Fools Series Part # 2) Proverbs 12:15-23 "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise. A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame. He that speaketh truth showeth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit. There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health. The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment. Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counselors of peace is joy. There shall no evil happen to the just; but the wicked shall be filled with mischief. Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are HIS delight. A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness."

     GOD's WORD has much to say about the fool. The dictionary defines a fool as "someone who lacks sense or judgment." In its most critical usage, the label of fool is equated to an "idiot." Most people do their best to avoid that kind of undesirable reputation; it is, therefore, amazing that so many are concerned about what others think of them while at the same time they pay precious little attention to what GOD has said in HIS WORD about fools. In this series of studies, let us carefully note the Scripture's description of those whom the LORD identifies as such. We can see that HE puts them in this category on the basis of their thoughts, actions, and words. While the unsaved are certainly deemed fools due to their rejection of GOD, the believer can also display the very same tendencies and likewise be foolish in the sight of GOD.

     The fool is self-deceived into thinking he is doing okay: "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes" (v.15). How often do we hear people say, "I cannot accept what the Bible teaches" and then proceeds to declare what they think about a subject, usually basing their beliefs on something another person has said or written and choosing to trust men rather that the WORD of GOD. Those who follow their own ways and ideas frequently receive the world's praise while believers who go GOD's way face the world's scorn (1st.Corinthians 2:14 pictured above). Man's unregenerate understanding is upside down (Proverbs 19:3 pictured above). The LORD says, "The heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness" (v.23b); if a man's heart is not right with GOD, then what he thinks or says concerning the LORD will not be right either. Do our words, actions, and thoughts reckon us to be fools ? If so, then we must change. MHR

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation