A FOOL'S PARADE

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7 NLT

The word "fool" in the Old Testament seldom, if ever, is used to describe the feebleminded, imbecile, idiot or moron. But, it does describe those who thumb their noses at authority, the rebellious. Especially those who rebel against God and the laws of order, decency, and justice.

Notice in Proverbs how many such characteristics of rebelliousness are listed against the fool, and see God’s attitude toward them. I’ve often looked back on the aftermath of the mess I’ve made of things, because I didn’t trust the leading of the Holy Spirit.

The fear of the Lord: Expresses the secret to obtaining wisdom that is real to us, something that we can get a hold of and walk in it. It is not the terror of an unreasonable tyrant, but the kind of awe and respect which will lead to obedience to Him who knows what is best for us.

Fools, in their fear of a tyrant (that’s what they think God is), decide they don’t want to hear what God has to say, "or" what those in authority over them have to say. They would rather live outside of the will of God and stumble over the consequences of disobedience.

Proverbs 14:2-3 From the Message Bible: An honest life shows respect for God; a degenerate life is a slap in his face. Frivolous talk provokes a derisive smile; wise speech evokes nothing but respect.
Prov 9:8-9; NLT So don’t bother rebuking mockers; they will only hate you. But the wise, when rebuked, will love you all the more. Teach the wise, and they will be wiser. Teach the righteous, and they will learn more.

The way you receive knowledge and are able to walk in it depends on your attitude. If you are careful not to stray from the words of knowledge (that includes God's heart in the matter), with restraint, (avoiding consequences for wrong actions) and do not let it become a source of pride(look at me and don’t you know that "I’m really good!).

However, in the New Testament the other side of the word fool is be a fool for Christ:
1 Cor. 3:18-20: Stop fooling yourselves. If you think you are wise by this worlds standards, you will have to become a fool so you can become wise by God’s standards. For the wisdom of this word is foolishness to God. As the Scriptures say, "God catches those who think they are wise in their own cleverness."  And again, "The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are worthless."

God isn’t asking us to dumb down and forget all we know, but He is asking us not to trust in our own understanding or our own way. These word seems to contradict and to the world it does. But if I want to live for God I have to be ready for the strange. By giving up my reins of control and trusting in God, I will see with my own eyes the mountains move, the impossible made possible. Father your word says that blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth. Teach me to walk in humility, for any thing that is good about me comes from you.

In His Love,
Karen Trevino