Be Wise

Proverbs urges us to be wise about the things of God and not to mock them.

“Mockers inflame a city, but the wise turn away anger.”—Proverbs 29:8 CSB

Who are these mockers? These are people who freely scoff at and ridicule the things of God. They reject the concept of morals, have no fear of God or concern for eternal truth, and don’t take anything seriously. They feel free to say or do just about anything.

What is the impact of such people? They “inflame a city.” In other words, they stir up dissension and spread destruction. They lay traps and create problems everywhere—in homes, churches, communities, marriages, families, businesses, and even among nations.

The Bible provides this contrast: “The wise turn away anger.” Those who are wise do not seek trouble. With a foundation in godly wisdom, they are careful about the words they speak. Instead of stirring up trouble, they seek to turn away anger. They are peacemakers who seek first the Kingdom of God. Instead of creating problems, they prevent and solve problems, touching people’s lives with restoration and healing.

The world is still filled with scorners, scoffers, and mockers. We can discern and recognize the people who don’t take God seriously, ridicule those who follow Jesus, criticize those who spread the Gospel, lay traps, and seek to deceive the innocent.

Today, seek God’s wisdom. Be careful about the words you speak. Commit yourself to being a servant of God, and seek first His Kingdom. Be a peacemaker in your community and the world.

Reflection Question: How do you react in the face of mockery or scoffing?