The third stage of foolishness is the stubborn fool who is right in his own eyes. Solomon noted, “The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice” (Proverbs 12:15). The stubborn fool is so sure of himself that he declines sound advice. He is confounded by wisdom (Proverbs 24:7) and despises it along with discipline (Proverbs 1:7). He is quick to quarrel and blame others, leaving a trail of relational wreckage. Consequently, he lacks understanding and insight into others’ perspectives (Proverbs 10:21).

Take Proverbs’ stubborn fool test. Are you always right? Rather than listen to advice, do you resist it? Do you despise wisdom and discipline? Is your heart so hard that you show your annoyance immediately, refusing to overlook an insult? Are you characterized by unreconciled relationships? Do you mock at making amends for your sins? If the answer to any of these questions is “Yes,” then it is time for a heart change.

For more, watch The Restoration Road with Mitch Kruse, Episode 7: A Fool’s Sin and the Restorer’s Grace