Joker

Hi Ladies,

Here are more biblical concerns about the foolish man… because the woman who marries him will carry a heavy load. Even though he may be a Believer and aware of his God-ordained responsibilities to his wife, as a consequence of his inadequacies or plain unconcern, she may be burdened with the task of sustaining the household.  And like Nabal’s wife Abigail, she must often run around trying to straighten out his messes.

Many of his actions will be irrational, but his wife will be unable to reason with him about them. As Proverbs 12: 15 says, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who heeds counsel is wise.”  He may be wildly extravagant, or miserly to an extreme, lacking discretion, and unable to discern other peoples’ motives, or to guard his tongue.  He may display the negative attributes of haughtiness, selfishness, or pride, for as Proverbs 14: 3 states, “In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride.”

LAZINESS

Laziness is often a defining characteristic of the fool.  As head of his family, God requires the man to provide for their material sustenance, and on a psychological level, most guys need to fulfill that role.  Since Garden of Eden days, man has been assigned to work, and gainful employment is thoroughly discussed in the Bible.  Here are just a few Scriptures:

  • Proverbs 10: 4 – “He who works with a lazy hand is poor, but the hand of the diligent brings riches.”
  • Proverbs 12: 11 – “He who tills his land will be satisfied with bread.”
  • Proverbs 13: 4 – “The soul of a sluggard desires, and has nothing; but the soul of the diligent shall be made rich.”
  • Ecclesiastes 9: 10 – “Whatsoever your hand finds to do, do it with your might.”
  • Proverbs 18: 9 – “He who is slothful in his work is a brother to him who is a great destroyer.”
  • Hebrews 6: 12 – “…do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.”

Our wise Father knew that giving man the responsibility to care for his loved ones would strengthen him, and weld the family unit together. On the other hand, Proverbs 19: 24 states, “A lazy man buries his hand in the bowl, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.” This poor specimen of manhood would rather starve than work, and he’s certainly not interested in sharing or meeting the needs of others.  He’s unfit for marriage until The LORD changes him.

Even if the fool is prosperous like Nabal, there will be a lack of harmony in the home. He will seldom heed advice from his spouse, and will be deaf to her suggestions, although Proverbs 19: 20 declares a man should “Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter days.”

There are still more traits and scriptures to consider, but as a godly woman, you can prayerfully discern if a man possesses foolish characteristics. God will show you the signs if you’re willing to look closely, but we’re often tempted to dismiss them as unimportant.  We may put on blinders, rather than risk missing out on what may seem to be a perfectly good mate.

Many a determined woman has convinced herself that she can change her fool’s behavior, or she feels that his being saved will mitigate any negative effects. In fact, the foolish man can often be charming or amusing at first, but a shallow fellow with no depth soon wears thin. After the initial romantic haze has lifted, the daily tasks of living with his true nature will begin in earnest.

If The LORD has specifically equipped you to handle the quirks of a particular guy, He Himself will confirm that to you. This fellow may not be perfect, but if he’s perfect for you, Our Father will clarify His Will in this regard.  If this man is in your destiny, then ultimately all will be well.

We’ll look at another SAVED-BUT concern next week.   Joy and Shalom!