Sermon Snippet – The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
INTRODUCTION – Last week, we studied the need to guard our hearts – who we really are – “for out of it are the issues of life” (Proverbs 4:23b), that is, genuine spiritual life. Part of that process of protection is to “apply our hearts unto wisdom” (Psalm 90:12b). Today, we will consider the good (wisdom), the bad (foolishness), and the ugly (me).
1. WISDOM IS FORTHRIGHT; FOOLISHNESS IS SNEAKY
Wisdom, personified as a woman, calls out to everyone (Proverbs 1:20-21). There are no hidden agendas here, no attempts at manipulation, no subterfuges or obfuscations. “This is right; that is wrong,” says wisdom (Proverbs 8:1-4). We should be grateful for this clarity, this bright light. Foolishness, also personified as a woman in Proverbs, skulks at the dark end of the street and wears a mask. The voice might be loud, but it is deceitful (Proverbs 9:14-18). Wisdom calls openly; foolishness tempts subtly. The wise Christian is alert to the difference.
2. WISDOM SETS STANDARDS; FOOLISHNESS PROMOTES UNRULINESS
Wisdom challenges us to a better way to live (Proverbs 1:22-25). The strong language, including “reproof,” establishes higher expectations for us. We should appreciate that God sees us as worthwhile projects for reclamation. Foolishness scoffs at the very idea of discipline (Proverbs 5:8-13). We referenced II Timothy 1:7 last week: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” “A sound mind” means self-control. The careful Christian will choose to cultivate a disciplined mind and strive to be self-disciplined.
3. WISDOM IS PERCEPTIVE; FOOLISHNESS IS IGNORANT
Proverbs 1:29 equates “knowledge” and “the fear of the LORD.” Our faith is fact-based and provides the basis for an effective evaluation of others and of ourselves. Conversely, foolishness wallows unashamedly in ignorance, like a fattened hog in a sty (Proverbs 9:13). The Christian interested in steady spiritual growth will seek both facts and “the fear of the LORD” for they are mutually supportive.
4. WISDOM BUILDS UP; FOOLISHNESS TEARS DOWN
Encouragement and edification are expected results of wisdom (Proverbs 1:33). We know that we are safe in the eternal embrace of “Emmanuel…God with us…Jesus” (Matthew 1:23-25). Certainty is ours, and the “fear of evil” has no authority in our lives. Sadly, foolishness has power if we permit it to take hold, and it is a destructive power (Proverbs 7:25-27). A good Biblical test for the thoughtful Christian is found in this stark contrast: does this activity, idea, or word tend to build up or tear down? Does it raise or raze?
CONCLUSION – Paul discussed our continuing dilemma in Romans 7:15-25. His ultimate conclusion is that each one of us will fail without Jesus Christ as Savior. Even with Him as Savior, we need His help to understand that wisdom is good, foolishness is bad, and we are ugly if we do not seek to choose correctly. A foolish Christian is not a pretty sight. A wise Christian reflects the beauty of our Lord.