ODJ: just a little?

March 13, 2014 

READ: Ecclesiastes 10:1-3 

As dead flies cause even a bottle of perfume to stink, so a little foolishness spoils great wisdom and honour (v.1).

People living in the sunny state of Florida in America are dealing with a slow-moving but destructive creature. The Giant African snail, which can grow as big as a rat, is wreaking havoc as it gnaws through the stucco exterior of homes and devours every plant in its path. What’s more, the snails produce 1,200 eggs a year and leave a disgusting trail of slime and excrement wherever they go. These slow-moving, somewhat small pests have become a big problem really fast!

Solomon noted that something small—like a fly—can spoil even the sweetest smelling fragrance. He wrote, “As dead flies cause even a bottle of perfume to stink, so a little foolishness spoils great wisdom and honour” (Ecclesiastes 10:1). Throughout God’s Word, this idea is revisited—what may appear to be tiny, foolish choices can lead to massive problems.

For instance, James wrote, “A tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself” (3:5-6). And Jesus described the source of our foolish words and actions: “From within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride and foolishness” (Mark 7:21-22).

Are you considering a foolish decision? Even if you think it’s a small matter, think about the devastation it could bring to you and the cause of Christ. And, as you consider which path to take (Ecclesiastes 10:2-3), remember that the right choice reflects your heart and your relationship with God. —Tom Felten


Judges 16:1-21 ‹365-day plan

MORE
Read Matthew 7:26-27 and see what Jesus says is a foolish choice and how it can affect the foundation of your life. 
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Why do believers in Jesus sometimes make foolish choices? What will you do to pursue a wise course in Him today?