Proverbs 10:8 is a wonderfully instructive proverb that, if heard, understood and heeded, will leave the student wiser, more discerning and a better judge of men’s character; in other words, having acquired what old timer’s called “Common Sense”.
Proverbs 10:8 – “The wise [discerning] in heart [mind; understanding] will receive [take away; accept; obey] commandments [Law—human or Divine]: but a prating [lit. Lip=speech, talking, boasting] fool [silly; perverse; mocking] shall fall.”
Proverbs 10:8 reminds us that a man’s response to mandates and instruction reveals the manner of man he is—wise or foolish.
A wise man accepts guidance and guidelines, while a “prating fool” [lit. a loudmouth, egotistical man who mocks instruction] rejects human and divine principles and precepts. The “wise in heart” receives instruction and is the better, while the mocking fool invariably comes to a predictable end—he “shall fall”. Literally, those the fool has troubled will eventually cast him out.
The “prating fool” has a universal presence—young and old, rich and poor, male and female. Some reading Proverbs 10:8 are blind to the harsh reality—they are this manner of fool. Unteachable, headstrong, mean-spirited; you are a sorrow to your spouse and scorned by your children. Be forewarned—unless you repent, you will fall!
Proverbs 12:15 – “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.”
Copyright 2014 – Travis D. Smith