Scripture reading: Proverbs 17:12 “Let a man meet a she-bear robbed of her cubs rather than a fool in his folly.”

This bear is no “sissy”

Bear attack in Manitoba

Naples bear attack Jan 9th Florida Fish & Wildlife Andy Meunier Florida Fish & Wildlife Bear trap

2 Samuel 17:8 “You know your father and his men; they are fighters as fierce as a wild bear robbed of her cubs.” Hosea 13:8 “Like a bear robbed of her cubs, I will attack them and rip them open. Like a lion I will devour them; a wild animal will tear them apart.”

Proverbs 17:12 “Let a man meet a bear robbed of her cubs, rather than a fool in his folly.”

God’s people are to walk in wisdom, not in foolishness! Matthew 10:16 “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” Ephesians 5:15 “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise.”

characteristics of the fool! 1. He lacks a sense of balance Proverbs reveals many characteristics of the fool! 1. He lacks a sense of balance Eccl 7:16 “Be not overly righteous, and do not make yourself too wise. Why should you destroy yourself?” Philippians 4:5 “Let your moderation be known in all things”

2. He speaks without caution “Be swift to hear and slow to speak” He ignores James 1:19 “Be swift to hear and slow to speak” Broward Co. deputies received over 18 calls of concern warning of Nikolas Cruz; some even warned of his intent to shoot up a school!

Proverbs 18:2 “A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.” New Century Version “Fools do not want to understand anything. They only want to tell others what they think.”

The wise is careful how he speaks Colossians 4:6 “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”

3. He is quick-tempered A hot-head makes for a loose cannon! Proverbs 14:16 “A wise man fears the Lord and shuns evil, but a fool is hot-headed and reckless.”

The righteous learn patience and prudence Proverbs 14:29 NIV “A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly.”

4. He ignores advice and despises correction Proverbs 15:5 “A fool spurns his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.” Proverbs 12:15 “The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice.” Proverbs 13:10 “Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.”