The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.

What is the “way of a fool?” That is, what is it exactly that makes someone a fool? The same author defines it for us: a fool is someone who despises wisdom and instruction and who sets himself opposite those who fear the Lord (Proverbs 1:7). A fool is not necessarily intellectually stupid, but someone who refuses to submit to a proper understanding of the Lord and His creation.

The fact that a fool despises wisdom and instruction is also the reason why “a fool is right in his own eyes.” Instead of humbly submitting to wisdom and instruction, the fool thinks that his own way is the right way. His pride has taken over and prevented true understanding.

What is a “wise man?” A wise person is someone who values wisdom and instruction. He fears the Lord, because he knows that the fear of the Lord is the very beginning of wisdom and instruction (Proverbs 1:1-7). The wise are those who are willing to submit to a proper understanding of the Lord and His creation.

The fact that a wise person values wisdom and instruction is also the reason why they “listen to advice.” Instead of rejecting wisdom and instruction, a wise person seeks out instruction by reading scripture and consulting with experienced Christians. The wise person listens to advice, because humility has made true insight into the way things really are possible. A wise person would rather do things the right way even if it is more difficult to do so.

When David thought to build a temple for the Lord, a noble goal, He did not do what was right in his own eyes, but he sought the approval of the Lord by consulting with Nathan the prophet. He humbled himself under this instruction, and in wisdom, he held back and only helped to make preparations (2 Samuel 7).

The fool acts on his own, seeking his own glory, but a wise and disciplined man honors the Lord with his actions, promoting divine glory.

By John Huisman, friend of Bible League International