Proverbs 17:1-14
Reflect
Proverbs 17:12 says, "Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool bent on folly." The bear illustration is something we could easily experience here in Alberta. I know I have, and it was scary. I’ve encountered a few foolish people in Alberta too, so we have both parts of the proverb in play here. The comparison highlights the peril of encountering someone consumed by foolishness.
This proverb suggests that a bear encounter is less dangerous than dealing with a fool determined to engage in foolishness.
This proverb emphasizes the destructive nature of folly—it’s not just misguided, it’s downright dangerous. A fool bent on folly is someone who refuses wisdom, ignores advice, and persists in harmful behaviours, dragging others into the chaos they create. Engaging with or being influenced by such a person can lead us away from the path of righteousness and wisdom.
This proverb encourages us to be discerning about the people we associate with and the influence we allow in our lives. It reminds us to value wisdom and to steer clear of those whose lives are marked by folly, choosing instead the path of understanding and godliness.
I pray we have the wisdom to navigate well through the people we encounter.
Pastor Mike
Pray
- Pray for our Senior Lead Team Pastor, Lyle Buyer, his ministry, and family.
- Pray for our Church Board members: Beth Cheung, Dallas Ansell, Hal Reirson, JD Kliewer, Mary Jetha, Mike Ross, Randy Voss, Seth Jansen, Trevor Toews, Uwem Okome.
- Pray for our office staff: Vicky Bailey, Naomi Voss; bookkeeper Liudmyla Lushchyk.