Walking with Wise Men or Fools

Be Strong, Be Well — Friday, October 30, 2020

When Solomon asked God for wisdom, the Lord was so pleased with his request, He gave the king so much wisdom he became the wisest man who ever lived.

God said, “behold, I have done according to your words; see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before you, nor shall any like you arise after you” (1 Kings 3:12; cf. 1 Kings 4:29–30).

We might want to pay attention to what this great man of wisdom has to say, don’t you think? He wrote the following words, “He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will be destroyed” (Proverbs 13:20).

This brings up a question, who are the wise and who are the foolish? Throughout his writings Solomon answered this question. Basically, a fool will not listen to God’s Word, but a wise man not only listens, he applies what he learns to his life.

Jesus, who is greater than Solomon, taught on this subject. In His parable in Matthew 7:24-28, He pointed out how the wise are those who hear His words and do them; and the foolish are those who hear His words, but do not do them.

This answers whether we are wise or foolish. It also reveals the character of those with whom we associate. Who are our companions and friends? Who are those with whom we walk? The Bible has much to say in identifying both the wise and foolish. It will be worth our while to listen to God’s words and do them. —Chris