Pastor Bell's Words To Live By

Like snow in summer or rain in harvest, honour is not fitting for a fool. Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow, an undeserved curse does not come to rest. A whip for the horse, a halter for the donkey, and a rod for the backs of fools! Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will be like him yourself (Proverbs 26:1-4 NIV).

depicted as a fool

The people we associate with determine how we are perceived by the world. An old Jamaican proverb says ‘show me your company and I’ll tell you who you are’. The contradiction of the above is clear to see. Snow does not usually fall in summer nor does it usually rain in harvest time. However, as our sage describes, a fool will be wise in his or her own eyes. This is what distinguishes someone who is foolish from someone who is wise.

Here are some characteristics of fools:

–          They cut of their nose to spite their faces!

–          They return to their folly even after long sessions of counselling

–          They lack routine in their lives

–          They are incessant liars

Today our sage is giving us some insight of how to avoid remaining in a position where you can be categorised as a fool.

1. Listen to advice and implement the changes that are recommended
2. Listen twice as much as you speak, this is why we have two ears and one mouth
3. Associate with people who have achieved and learn their secrets
4. Be disciplined in all that you do
5. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes

Wisdom is underpinned by humility; arrogance drives away from you those who came to help.

Read Proverbs 26