Proverbs 12:15-17 – Anger and Lies
The pride of a fool keeps him from being wise. He thinks he knows everything, he needs no direction, asks no advice, is stubborn in his own way, because it is his own, and follows it to destruction. But what a proof of wisdom is a teachable spirit! It is the sign of a humble man who sees himself for who he really is – a sinner saved by grace, who has much to learn.
We all recognise the kind of foolish man described in verse 16. A quick-tempered man or woman, constantly annoyed about someone or something. Ever quick to criticise other people, no one enjoys being around them. The root of this foolishness is pride as well, for when we truly understand how sinful we are, it give us a more merciful and gracious spirit toward others. Instead of having the attitude of, “Can you believe how stupid they are? Are they incapable of doing this right? How dare they treat me that way?”; we would think “I’ve made plenty of mistakes in my time, said things I didn’t mean. I’m not sure I could do better. There’s probably a lot going on with them right now. I wonder how I can help.” Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit. When you feel your temper about to break out, pray instantly to God who can calm the storms in our hearts. Keep the example of Christ before your eyes, who when He was insulted, kept silent.
Verse 17 almost seems too obvious to be a proverb. But the Scripture doesn’t just deal with deep truths, but stamps the every-day truths with the seal of God, reminding us to be obedient. Truth and lies are not just qualities, but a distinctive mark of the two types of people in the world – believers and unbelievers.
Questions
- What can keep us from being wise?
- What should we do if we start to get annoyed with someone?
Prayer Points
- Pray for the preaching and hearing of God’s Word tomorrow.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.