Daily Word: Dullards

Proverbs 26:7 says: As legs hang limp on a cripple, so is a proverb in the mouth of dullards. (JPS) A "dullard" (Hebrew kesil) is not merely a man of low intelligence. He is the kind of fool who is foolish because of smug overconfidence. If you have ever meant someone that was a "know it all," and was arrogant, then you have met a dullard. The JPS Study Bible comments: "The dullard is a verbal cripple. To be effective, a proverb must be spoken at the right time and in the right fashion. Just as a cripple can not use his legs effectively, neither can a dullard use God's words to bring the guidance of wisdom."

Have you ever known someone that quotes God's words consistently, yet lives a life that is arrogant and condescending to others. When they speak Bible verses, you just cringe. If this has happened to you, then you understand the meaning of this proverb. It takes the right attitude and right timing for the wisdom of Proverbs to be effective. I knew of a situation where an individual wanted to go to someone that had just taken ill and tell him how he had brought the situation on himself. Now perhaps the person did have some influence on his present situation, but going to him at the point of deep pain was not advisable. I intervened and cautioned the person to desist from such actions. There was plenty of time later to provide the counsel. Wisdom needs right attitude and right timing.

Today, consider how you approach others. Do you have a spirit of arrogance about you? Do your actions match your mouth, i.e. your words? If you want the full benefit of God's wisdom, learn the right attitude and be humble.

NOTE: I have posted a small story on "True Humility" that would go well with this Daily Word. Please check it out at www.bjmi.blogspot.com.