Don't Be An April Fool

As I was growing up, I never had much of a verbal filter. Who am I kidding? I still don't have much of a filter. Whatever thought I had, more often critical than kind, would just flow from my mouth. My mom used to tell me, "There's honest and then there's brutally honest. You are brutally honest." Usually my reply would be something similar to, "Oh well." or "I'm just stating the truth." I obviously considered myself a step above all those to whom I frequently criticized.

The book of proverbs has a lot to say about foolish people and actions, and many times it is in relationship to our words. Proverbs 18:2 and 29:11 say "A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion." "A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back." Ouch! I have fallen very short from this counsel. Why is it that harsh or judgmental words can often be the first things that rush to our minds and mouths? The brutally honest answer is because we are self absorbed, foolishly sinful people. The Bible tells us that we display what is truly in our hearts, and I have made it evident over the years as to the condition of my heart. Here's the neat thing though. When we ask God to be the Lord and Master of our lives, He doesn't let us get away with a rotten heart. We often feel guilt or disgust at our less than holy thoughts and comments. I was so tired from years of careless words that I was repelled each time I continued to speak them. God has been transforming my heart though. I began to fill my life with godly influences and to pray, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." (Psalm 51:10) I still have so far to go, but God is faithful, and I hold fast to the truth that "He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." (1 John 4:4) I am now feeling compassion for those around me and seek to comfort rather than cut down.

This blog is titled "Don't Be An April Fool", but the truth behind it is extended to everyday of our lives. There is such freedom from the bondage of our sin when we seek God's best for us. Begin to pray Psalm 51:10 with me daily and experience wisdom and love for others in an exciting new light!

Other Proverbs about foolishness: 10:8, 10:10, 10:14, 10:18, 10:21, 12:15, 12:23, 13:16, 14:3, 14:7, 15:2, 15:7, 15:14, 17:28, 18:6-7, 19:1, 20:3

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