Wise in Our Own Eyes

“Like snow in summer and like rain in harvest, so honor is not fitting for a fool . . . Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.” Proverbs 26:1, 12 NASB

The first eleven verses of this chapter describe a fool, and the consequences of being foolish. For example, “A rod for the back of a fool . . . like the legs of the lame that hang limp is a proverb in the mouth of a fool . . . As a dog returns to his own vomit so a fool repeats his folly.”

However, there is a change in verse twelve. While it is bad to be a fool, Solomon (the writer of this chapter) described a condition that is worse: It may be bad to be foolish, but there is more hope for a fool than for a person who is “wise in his own eyes.” These are people who have an exalted opinion about themselves. They are proud and arrogant.

For example, even though “honor is not fitting for a fool,” so honor is even less fitting for one who is proud and wise in his own eyes. A rod may be fitting “for the fool’s back,” but it is even more fitting for one who is wise in his own eyes.

The Bible continually reminds us to seek humility, depend on God, and realize the terrible consequences of being proud. Yet many people ignore these warnings, and allow their lives to be dominated by pride. They pay the price.

Today, make sure that you aren’t a fool, or “wise in your own eyes.” Search your heart and mind. Examine your life in light of God’s Word. Let His Spirit convict you of sin and anything that displeases God. Repent of any trace of pride. Humble yourself before Him. And trust your life to Him.

Prayer: Father, I submit my life to You. Show me if I am being wise in my own eyes. I humble myself before You. Use me for Your Kingdom and glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.