A wise man trusts not in his heart, but a fool does that which is right in his own eyes. A wise man tests every thought and desire, while a fool lacks discernment. A wise man surrenders his way to the Lord, while a fool claims “the Lord” in his own ways. A wise man tests his way according to the Word, whereas a fool chases after empty dreams. The wise man is quick to wait for the Lord while the fool blindly follows the crowd. The wise man is cautious with his words while the fool boasts of which he has no knowledge. The wise man walks by faith and not by sight whereas the fool finds assurance in that which is discerned by the senses. The wise man trusts in the promises of His Word while the fool demands signs and wonders. A wise man humbly trusts in His Word while the fool trusts in his experiences. The wise man is willing to suffer for Christ’s sake whereas a fool claims baseless “promises” of his own imaginings. A wise man is acquainted with sorrow whereas the fool perishes for a lack of understanding. A wise man seeks the truth at the cost of his own comfort while the fool blissfully falls into error. A wise man boasts of his weakness and inability whereas the fool relies upon his own understanding. The wise man despises and fears his own heart while the fool delights in his own way. The wise man is aware of the darknesses of his heart while the fool blindly follows his passions. The fool’s faith extends merely to the gifts given by the Lord but the wise man looks only unto Him. The fool seeks blessings while the wise man seeks the Giver. The fool worships gifts while the wise man worships the One Who gives it. The wise man will despise whatever gift, blessing, or “experience” for the glory of God while the fool will readily despise His Word to fulfill his own sensuality.
