Don’t Be An Idiot

Wise choices will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe.

Proverbs 2:11 (NLT)

Several years ago, there was a TV show called The Office. The show is about a crew of misfits that are trying to run an office supply company. Often times, during the show, the camera will cut to an interview with one of the characters so they can provide some commentary on the situation that is unfolding.

One of the more colorful characters on the show was Dwight. Dwight was always seen as the guy who thought he knew everything, and those who chose not to follow him (which was virtually everyone) were unwise. In one such situation, Dwight was being interviewed about the best advice he had ever received from his boss. His answer? “Don’t be an idiot. It changed my life” he said. Of course, it always turned out that his schemes were not well thought out by any stretch of the imagination. Dwight thought he was being wise, but never really was.

How often are we like Dwight? How often do we come up with some grand scheme to make life better, or to get rich, or get the job, or get the girl/guy, only to have it end in disaster? Of course, unlike a sitcom, people generally don’t laugh it off and forget it ever happened. In real life, the results of our scheming cause harm to others, and to us.

Additionally, the harm often isn’t just emotional baggage. Most of the time, because we have schemed, we have done so contrary to God’s desire or direction for us. After all, how could He possibly know what we need to be fulfilled and happy? And, when we scheme against what God wants, it causes a rift between us and Him. Our relationship with Him takes a hit. Our pride begins to cut the ties that He gave His life to build with us.

Wise choices, as our verse today states, keep us safe. Wisdom comes from knowing God, who is the source of all wisdom. (1 Corinthians 1:30) When we follow His directions, our choices are pure, good, awesome, amazing. When we follow our own desires (which are corrupted by sin), they often lead to heartache, broken relationships, pain, suffering, and death – both spiritual and physical. So, to put it plainly, do as Dwight said, not as he did. Don’t be an idiot, a fool, too prideful to submit to the wisdom of God. Instead, embrace the perfect wisdom found in Jesus.