Have you ever found yourself working in an organization with a stubborn leader at the helm? They believe their position on any topic is always right, they resist sound advice, and they oftentimes lack wisdom. Solomon warned against the rebellious who attempt to captain the ship: “Wisdom is too high for fools; in the assembly at the gate they must not open their mouths” (Proverbs 24:7).

The fool mentioned in this verse is the stubborn fool, stemming from the Hebrew word, ewil, which is translated in English as evil. The stubborn fool is right in their own eyes: “The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice” (Proverbs 12:15). They despise wisdom and discipline (see Proverbs 1:7). They are quick to quarrel (see Proverbs 20:3); they will pick a fight (see Proverbs 27:3); and they will stick the blame on someone else instead of reconciling a conflict (see Proverbs 14:9). The stubborn fool is a relationship killer and a leadership nightmare because their hearts are hard, and their sharp words pour out like gasoline on a fire.

Here is a difficult question. Have you been stubborn in a particular conflict with someone, hardening your heart to God in that area of your life? If the answer is yes, then confess your hardheartedness to the Restorer, begging Him for the heart of Christ. Seek forgiveness vertically with God and horizontally with your counterpart. Repent of your sin. Make amends. If you are in a conflict with a stubborn fool, pray for them. Ask God to give them the humble heart of Christ and the wisdom that can only come from Him. Then take a risk and serve that person in a manner that meets their needs. God will use your humility to draw you both closer to Him.

Episode 104: 30 Sayings of the Wise – Fools from mitchkrusetv on Vimeo.