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The Stupidest Man In The World - Prov. 30
The Stupidest Man In The World – Prov. 30
As we come to the end of the book of Proverbs, we encounter 'the stupidest man in the world'; at least that is his own assessment. Actually, we see his great wisdom, but it is a wisdom that is despised by most men. The ability to recognize who we really are (in relationship to God and the whole scheme of things) is not often found among us.
· He recognizes that with all of his knowledge, he doesn't begin to know what God knows (3-4).
· Thus he recognizes he is in no position to add to God's word (5-6).
· He recognizes his own abilities (or lack of them), and thus prays that he will not be tempted by worldly possessions or the lack of them (7-9).
· He has observed the men are often arrogant and puffed-up,
o some against the underprivileged (10),
o some against parents (11),
o some concerning their own goodness (12),
o some of their worth and importance (13),
o and some against the weak and helpless (14).
· He has recognized that the desire for more will leave one unsatisfied as one can never then have enough (15-16).
· He has learned that listening to the wisdom and instruction of parents is the path to life and righteousness (17).
· He marvels at how nature is designed to work, but more so at the self-righteousness of an adulterous woman (18-20).
· He returns to talk about how circumstances can cause a person to become arrogant and over-bearing (21-23). He then contrasts that with creatures that 'remain in their place' (24-28), then returns to list things that are stately (29-31).
· He then concludes that if we have allowed ourselves to become arrogant and puffed-up that we should immediately change our thinking and character, for such arrogance has unwanted consequences (32-33).
The stupidest man in the world? Yes, that is probably how the arrogant of the world view him. Yet, among the godly, he has learned that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. To learn your true place in relationship to God and eternity may be stupid to the world, but will bring glory from God. Are you stupid yet? Hugh DeLong
