"Like a lame man's legs, which hang useless, is a proverb in the mouth of fools. Like one who binds the stone in the sling is one who gives honor to a fool. Like a thorn that goes up into the hand of a drunkard is a proverb in the mouth of fools. Like an archer who wounds everyone is one who hires a passing fool or drunkard. Like a dog that returns to his vomit is a fool who repeats his folly. - Proverbs 26:7-11 ESV
Five comparisons, five points. A fool's wisdom is useless. Their efforts are pointless. They are painfully annoying. They are dangerous. And worst of all, they do not learn from their mistakes. They keep trying the same things.
This descriptive passage about another human doesn't sound like how a Christian would describe people. It sounds harsh, especially for us "be nice" people in the South. But understand what the word "fool" means in the Bible. The word was used to describe a person who is stupid, simple, and arrogant enough to demand high positions and respect.
This describes someone unqualified to run for President of a country. Their policies make no sense, their efforts improve nothing, and their constant mistakes get on our nerves. They wreck the economy, steer the country in the wrong direction, and refuse to learn from their mistakes. They keep on trying the same old things, expecting different results. On top of all that, their arrogance is appalling. This is the fool that Solomon is describing.
The point? If you are content with being a fool, stay in your lane, bro! Let others lead and influence. If that is unacceptable to you, ask God for His knowledge and the wisdom to use it appropriately. Then, drop the arrogance, learn from your mistakes, and look for areas in which you can represent God to the world and serve people. This is not rocket science! Don't be a fool!
Pastor Mike
BTW, I met a nice French fellow yesterday. He was wearing sandals. His name is Philippe Flop.