Proverbs 18:2 (NLT)
“Fools have no interest in understanding; they only want to air their own opinions.”

Confusing “Thought” with “Truth”

“Fool” is a harsh word, but it is the biblical diagnosis for anyone who shuts their ears to the perspective of others. We live in a culture that confuses “speaking my mind” with “speaking the truth.” Let’s be clear: just because you thought it doesn’t make it right, and it certainly doesn’t make it holy. True, authoritative speech is only that which is inspired and anointed by the Holy Spirit.
If you are truly “right,” you should have no fear of hearing what someone else has to say. People often refuse to listen because they are afraid that new information might actually change their minds. That isn’t strength; that’s fragile insecurity. Proverbs 18:6 warns us that fools get into constant quarrels—they are practically “asking for a beating.” Most conflicts could be avoided if we prioritized understanding over broadcasting.

The Practice

Mastering the art of the ear

1. Resign from “Mr. Know-It-All”
I had an aunt who nicknamed me “Mr. Know-It-All” in my youth. For years, I thought it was a term of endearment. I later realized she was giving me a mirror to see the foolishness of always needing to be right. Wisdom is the ability to admit that your perspective is not the only one in the room.
2. Seek an Unlikely Source
Make a deliberate choice to listen to someone you normally wouldn’t. What do you have to lose? If they are wrong, you’ve lost five minutes. If they are right, you’ve gained a lifetime of insight.
3. Become a Judgment-Free Listener
My father-in-law is a master of this. He can sit and allow you to put your “crazy thoughts” together without judgment or accusation. Then, at the perfect moment, he offers that salient truth or question that moves you forward.
4. Listening is the Foundation of Leading
You cannot lead if you won’t listen. Ask God to give you a compassionate and understanding heart. Leadership in the Kingdom is not about having the loudest voice; it’s about having the most discerning ear.
5. The Timing of Speech
Wisdom is not just knowing what to say, but knowing when—and when not—to say it. If your opinion doesn’t add value or clarity, it’s just useless noise.

Today’s Declaration

“I am closing my mouth so I can open my mind. I reject the ‘Opinion Trap’ and choose the pursuit of understanding. I will not be a ‘Know-It-All,’ but a ‘Learn-It-All.’ I ask the Holy Spirit to give me a listening heart today so that I may lead with compassion and speak with discernment.”

The person who is always talking is rarely learning. Today is a great day to make a Fresh Start!
God bless,
+Pastor Kris