March 14
The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin. Proverbs 10:8
There is a significant and noteworthy distinction in this verse as to how we interact with the world and those around us. In the first six words, we see what happens with someone who is humble: they accept commands. This is contrasted by the person who takes the path of hubris (overconfidence that results in failure and ruin).
The phrase “wise in heart” appears several times in Proverbs. This does not mean it’s someone who has a high IQ. It is not referring to a person who is highly-educated and holds several degrees. Wise in heart does not describe the individual who has a high level of expertise in a certain area. Rather, wise in heart is the description of the person who has a teachable spirit. This is someone who understands that a willingness to be told what to do comes from the posture of the heart. Regardless of the amount of head knowledge, they recognize that someone else’s instruction (laws and commands) are better than their own rules. This person accepts - and fully believes in their heart - that what God desires of them is far better than what their desires are. This willingness to accept commands is what makes them wise in heart. A person wise in heart actively reaches out - searches - for the commands. They see the commands as loving corrections from God. These commands are beneficial for their lives.
However, a chattering fool (one not wise in heart) comes to ruin. Chattering is the quality where one talks a lot - all the time. The chattering fool rarely stops to allow others the opportunity to talk, and they are so busy defending themselves that they don’t (can’t) hear wisdom from someone else. It’s as though they use relentless talking as a shield so they don’t have to listen to (God’s) commands that might require them to change. I’ve heard it said that we have been given two ears and one mouth for a reason, and that is because we should do twice as much listening as we do talking. How well do I listen to what God is trying to tell me? Am I taking/making time to hear God’s Word and allowing His commands to make me wise in heart? Or, am I so busy talking and trying to drown out what I need to hear from God (and others)? A wise in heart person knows that often it is in the silence where God’s voice is heard (1 Kings 19:11-13). Where do I need to slow down, tune out the noise, and listen for the whisper of God’s voice?
Father - Thank You for Your love and that You don’t leave me to figure out life on my own. You offer me commands and instructions to lead my life. So often, I allow my own thoughts and chattering words to get in the way of hearing You. Forgive me. Help me humbly accept corrections from You, Your Word, or a friend. Help me tune out the noises and distractions. Quiet my heart. I want to hear You. Continue to mold and shape me. Make me wise in heart. In Your name we pray. Amen