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Defensive driving techniques protect us from foolish drivers. The proverbs in this study are some of those in Solomon’s wisdom that equip us for “defensive living.”
Try This “Thought Experiment”
Imagine yourself walking in the forest. Now imagine that a rampaging mother bear, robbed of her cubs, comes crashing through the brush. How do you think that situation is like meeting a fool in the midst of his folly?
The Big Talkers
Proverbs 18:2 is a good reminder to “take care of your tongue the way you take care of gold and silver” and to “think before you speak.” Or, this quote from President Abraham Lincoln:
Lovers or Fighters?
Are you hanging around lovers or fighters? Here’s another warning sign about fools—they always seem to be looking for a fight:
It is to one’s honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel. Proverbs 20:3
Over & Over Again…
Unfortunately, fools return to things that disgust others…as Solomon’s word picture illustrates!
Have You Taken a Look in the Mirror Lately?
As we’ve discussed multiple times in this blog, it’s time to use your most powerful leadership tool.
In Matthew 7:1, Jesus warned, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” We must use our discernment—not to condemn—to recognize the good and bad influencers for our lives.
After his warning about judging others, Jesus said, “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay not attention to the plank in your own eye?” We need to pray that we can follow Solomon’s advice about fools while heeding Jesus’ warning against pride.
Remember, who you hang around will certainly influence you. Recent research even suggests that if your friend of a friend of a friend is happy with their life, then you have a 6% greater likelihood of being happy yourself. Now 6% may not seem like much, but consider this. Some studies suggest that if you’re given a $10,000 raise, that would trigger about a 2% increase in your happiness!
So, surrounding yourself with positive influencers is crucial, as you shoot for the stars!