Deer in the Headlights

(Proverbs 8:5 KJV) O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.

Two points of honesty the Bible gives us. First, it tells us where or what we are. Here it calls some people “simple" (naive ones NASB) (6612a) and others “fools” (3684). We tend to dodge those qualities. Second, it points out that we can grow. We don’t need to stay where we are. It is possible for the “simple” (6612a) to “understand" (discern NASB) (995) “wisdom" (prudence NASB) (6195). You do not have to remain out of it.

The idea of being naive goes back to a root including staring with wide open eyes. The idea of a deer staring into the headlights of an oncoming car comes to mind. It is a condition of young children that some people grow out of and some learn to disguise. As believers we cannot afford to be naive. We cannot afford to believe everything we hear whether it be the evening news or the morning sermon (or the daily blog). This verse implies that we can learn to “discern” (995). This is a very common word in Proverbs that is often translated understand.

Discernment is so important to believers. We fall into the opposite traps of legalism or antinomianism because we do not want to think. God speaks to us through many forums and it is easy to be diverted from the paths of righteousness is we refuse to think.

When did “wisdom" (prudence NASB) (6195) become a trait to be laughed at? Here the KJV needs to be updated. Prudence is a much better translation here. We dread being called a prude, yet it is a quality that we are to seek. The world loves to take qualities that God has blessed and make a mockery of them. There is a website, “The Ultimate Answer to Kings” which finishes its title with “...is not a bullet but a belly laugh!” There is a bit of wisdom in that. When someone mocks you, don’t get mad. Instead say, “Thank you.”

When is the last time someone attempted to attack your faith either by belittling you or with anger? Maybe it is time to be more vocal.