Those Who Reject Wisdom

October 13, 2021

Proverbs 1:24–33

Because I have called, and you refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded; 

But you have set at nought all my counsel, and would have none of my reproof: 

I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear comes; 

When your fear comes as desolation, and your destruction comes as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish come upon you. 

Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me: 

For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD: 

They would have none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof. 

Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices. 

For the turning away of the simple shall slay them, and the prosperity of fools shall destroy them. 

But whoso hearkens unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.

Over the centuries, billions of people have ignored the call of wisdom. Think of the millions of children who have heard the words of wisdom in Sunday schools, preaching at church, and in family devotions, but have turned away from it all. These warnings come with good cause.

What a contrast between the bored and disinterested masses who, in some form, hear the voice of wisdom and the desperate, importunate character of wisdom’s screams! Wisdom has a clear view of the horror and desolation of those who reject her. But the masses walk mindlessly through the gates of hell into everlasting torment.

Wisdom extends an invitation to men by way of reproofs and counsel. It is a window of opportunity whereby they may pursue the way of wisdom and truth. Whether one will pursue wisdom is, of course, dependent on the regenerating influence of the Spirit of God. For children growing up in a Christian home, their opportunity to respond to the Word is while they are still in their parents’ home. If they reject these words and do not choose the fear of the Lord, they will be subject to the frightening judgments listed in this passage. Now is the time to listen and respond to wisdom’s appeals!

Family Discussion Questions: 

1. What happens to the rebellious fool who refuses to listen to the wisdom of God’s Word? 

2. What happens when you listen to Wisdom?