Albert Einstein was heard to say, “Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I’m not sure about the former.” Sadly, it does seem that far too often there is no limit to the foolishness we get ourselves into — or the damage we create by our foolishness and the choices it fosters.
It was in such a season of regret that David poured out his struggle and complaint to God in Psalm 38. As he recounted his own failings, as well as the painful consequences he was enduring because of those failings, the shepherd-king made an insightful comment: “My wounds are foul and festering because of my foolishness” (v.5). Although the psalmist does not give us the details of those choices or of his worsening wounds, one thing is clear — David recognized his own foolishness as their root cause.
The answer for such destructive foolishness is to embrace the wisdom of God. Proverbs 9:10 reminds us, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Only by allowing God to transform us can we overcome the foolish decisions that cause so much trouble. With His loving guidance, we can follow the pathway of godly wisdom. — Bill Crowder
Loving Father, forgive me for the seemingly limitless capacity I have to be foolish. Teach me in Your wisdom, so that my life might be pleasing to You and a blessing to others around me.
READ: Psalm 38:1-15
God’s wisdom is given to those
who humbly ask Him for it.