Why Some People Never Get Wisdom

How does God define a fool? Just the word “fool” sounds harsh doesn’t it? That’s because it is.

Solomon once said “It won’t do a fool any good to try to buy wisdom, because he doesn’t have the ability to be wise.” (Proverbs 17:16 (NCV)

Wisdom isn't for sale. You can’t just swipe a card, attend a class, or buy a book and expect to become wise, especially if your heart isn’t ready for it. This proverb isn’t about how smart someone is; it’s about the condition of their heart.

The fool described here doesn’t lack access to wisdom, he lacks the humility to receive it and the desire to apply it. Let’s look at what this kind of person looks like and how Scripture warns us to avoid becoming like them.

The Know-It-All. This person listens only to respond, not to learn. They surround themselves with information but ignore transformation. “A foolish person doesn’t care if he understands a thing; he just wants to show off what he thinks.” (Proverbs 18:2 (NCV)

For the Know-it-all, wisdom starts with listening. If you're always defending yourself or trying to impress others with what you know, maybe you're closing the door to real growth.

The Unteachable One. They resist correction and believe they’re above instruction. Even when truth is offered in love, they reject it. “Fools refuse to listen to their father’s correction, but those who accept discipline are smart.” (Proverbs 15:5 (NCV)

For the Unteachable One, wisdom requires submission to God, to truth, and to wise counsel. Pride shuts out learning.

The Superficial Seeker. They want the benefits of wisdom (respect, success, admiration) but not the process (humility, self-examination, obedience). “Respect for the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools hate wisdom and discipline.”(Proverbs 1:7 (NCV)

For the Superficial Seeker, Godly wisdom can’t be gained without a deep reverence for God and a willingness to change.

The Stubborn Rebel. They hear the truth, maybe even multiple times, but still choose their own way. Wisdom confronts them, but they harden their heart. “There is more hope for a foolish person than for someone who thinks he is wise.” (Proverbs 26:12 (NCV)

For the Stubborn Rebel, rebellion dressed up as independence is still rebellion. A wise heart welcomes correction, even when it stings.

Here’s the Bottom Line. You can’t microwave wisdom. It takes time, humility, and a heart open to God. The fool may carry a Bible, attend church, or quote good advice, but if he won’t yield, he’ll never be truly wise.

Solomon said: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and don’t depend on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5 (NCV)

Man, Solomon was a very wise guy. I think he is basically saying “If you want wisdom, start with surrender.”

Be open to change, growth and confession. The simple formula for change is Confession - Repentance - Seeking Forgiveness. It’s the foundation of true growth.

GOD, help me be humble, open and willing to listen, self-examine and change. Why? To honor and love you. And to love others as much as I love myself. IJNIP amen ♥️