THE SIGNS OF FOOLISHNESS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Proverbs 14:16
Supporting Texts: Ecclesiastes 10:3, Proverbs 1:7, Proverbs 18:2, Matthew 25:1-13
INTRODUCTION:
Foolishness is not only a matter of ignorance or lack of education — it is a spiritual condition that is revealed through attitudes, choices, and behaviours. The Bible has much to say about fools and the characteristics that identify them. These signs help us recognise and avoid the destructive path of foolishness.
It is important to understand that even believers can walk in foolishness when they ignore God’s Word, reject counsel, and live carelessly. Foolishness is often subtle and disguised, but its end is always ruin. That is why Scripture warns us to examine ourselves and walk as the wise.
In this Bible study, we shall uncover the biblical signs of foolishness so that we can avoid them and walk in the wisdom that comes from God. As we study these signs, may the Holy Spirit correct every trace of foolishness in us and lead us into godly wisdom.
1. REJECTION OF GOD AND HIS WORD
One of the clearest signs of foolishness is the disregard for God’s existence, authority, and truth.
a) Denying God's reality: The fool says in his heart, “There is no God” (Psalm 14:1).
b) Despising godly counsel: Fools reject the fear of the Lord and the wisdom that comes from it (Proverbs 1:7).
c) Mocking spiritual matters: Foolish people make light of sin, judgment, and eternity (Proverbs 14:9).
d) Ignoring divine instruction: God’s Word is life, but fools treat it as irrelevant (Proverbs 13:13).
Biblical Example:
The people in Noah’s generation mocked his warnings of judgment and lived carelessly until the flood came and destroyed them all (Genesis 6:5-13, Matthew 24:38-39).
2. REFUSAL TO RECEIVE CORRECTION
Another strong indicator of foolishness is an unteachable spirit — an unwillingness to listen, learn, or change.
a) Despising reproof and rebuke: Proverbs 15:5 says a fool despises his father’s instruction.
b) Stubbornness in wrong behaviour: Proverbs 12:15 says the way of a fool is right in his own eyes.
c) Rejecting wise counsel: Proverbs 1:30 says fools refuse to accept counsel and correction.
d) Loving self-will above truth: Proverbs 18:2 says a fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his own opinion.
Biblical Example:
Pharaoh continually hardened his heart and refused to heed Moses' warnings, which led to the destruction of Egypt’s firstborn and his own downfall (Exodus 7–12).
3. SPEAKING WITHOUT WISDOM OR CONTROL
A fool is often known by how he speaks. Foolish speech causes strife, exposes ignorance, and dishonours God.
a) Quick to speak, slow to listen: Proverbs 29:11 says a fool utters all his mind.
b) Careless and destructive speech: Ecclesiastes 10:12–14 says the words of a fool consume him.
c) Spreading lies, gossip, or slander: Proverbs 10:18 says fools hide hatred and spread slander.
d) Jesting and vulgar talk: Ephesians 5:4 warns against foolish talking and coarse joking.
Biblical Example:
Nabal’s harsh and thoughtless words toward David’s men almost cost him his life, and he died shortly after God struck him (1 Samuel 25:2–38).
4. MISPLACED PRIORITIES AND LACK OF PREPARATION
Fools live only for the moment. They neglect their spiritual responsibilities and fail to prepare for the future.
a) Pursuing pleasure over purpose: Proverbs 10:23 says fools make sport of mischief.
b) Wasting time and opportunities: Ephesians 5:15–16 says the wise redeem the time, but fools waste it.
c) Neglecting spiritual growth and readiness: Matthew 25:3 says the foolish virgins took no oil with their lamps.
d) Living without eternal perspective: Ecclesiastes 10:3 says a fool lacks direction and shows everyone how senseless he is.
Biblical Example:
The five foolish virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 were unprepared for the bridegroom’s coming. Their carelessness cost them the opportunity to enter the wedding feast.
CONCLUSION:
Foolishness has visible signs, and the Bible clearly exposes them so we can avoid walking on the path that leads to destruction. Foolishness begins in the heart but manifests through actions, speech, and decisions. As believers, we must constantly check our lives to ensure we are walking in wisdom.
The good news is that God offers wisdom to anyone who asks in faith (James 1:5). The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Let us forsake every trace of foolishness and choose the path of the wise — the path that leads to peace, purpose, and eternal life.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, deliver me from every root and expression of foolishness in my life.
2. Father, give me a teachable and humble heart that embraces correction.
3. Lord, set a guard over my mouth and teach me to speak with wisdom.
4. Help me to value and prioritise spiritual growth and readiness.
5. Father, let my life reflect Your wisdom in all things.
