Our wisdom for today is taken from Proverbs 18: verse 2.
“A fool does not delight in understanding, but only in airing his opinions.”
This text reminds me of Plato’s remark, “Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something.”
In the Book of Job, we see a powerful example of this. When Job faced unimaginable suffering, his friends arrived not to comfort him but to straighten him out with their words. They were convinced that Job’s plight must be a direct result of his own sins. Without true understanding of God’s ways or Job’s innocence, they offered lengthy, misguided advice. They were completely wrong, but never in doubt.
Their folly is revealed when God Himself rebukes them in Job 42, stating, “You have not spoken of me what is right.” Job’s friends were more concerned with expressing their own opinions than seeking truth.
We should try to listen and understand rather than rushing to voice our opinions. True wisdom seeks understanding and compassion rather than just being heard. We must reflect on how we can be better listeners and more compassionate friends, taking a step back to seek true understanding before speaking.
I’m Lonnie Davis
And these are thoughts worth thinking.