JANUARY 22 - Don’t Play the Fool
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 6:12-15; Psalm 10; Matthew 19
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“A worthless person, a wicked man, goes about with crooked speech, winks with his eyes, signals with his feet, points with his finger, with perverted heart devises evil, continually sowing discord; therefore calamity will come upon him suddenly; in a moment he will be broken beyond healing.” — Proverbs 6:12–15
“Why does the wicked renounce God and say in his heart, ‘You will not call to account’?” — Psalm 10:13
“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.’” — Matthew 19:14
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You’ve probably heard the phrase “Don’t be that guy.” There’s always that guy in movies or on social media—the one who’s fake, shady, or just plain toxic. Proverbs 6 gives us God’s version of that guy—someone who spreads lies, stirs up drama, and thinks they’ll get away with it. But God isn’t blind. Psalm 10 reminds us that even when people act like they’re untouchable, God sees, and He will hold them accountable.
On the flip side, Matthew 19 shows us who does get close to Jesus—those with a humble, childlike heart. While the wicked try to play games and pretend God won’t notice, Jesus opens His arms to the ones who come with simple faith and honesty.
In a world where being slick or savage is celebrated, God invites you to be something different. He’s not fooled by smooth talk or shady behavior. He’s looking for a heart that stays real, walks in love, and refuses to stir up drama. Don’t play the fool—walk in wisdom and stay close to Jesus.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Check Your Heart: Are there areas in your life where you’ve been dishonest or stirred up drama? God sees past our words and straight into our hearts.
2. Don’t Be Fooled by Appearances: Just because someone seems popular or clever doesn’t mean they’re walking with God. How can you spot the difference between wise and foolish influences?
3. Choose the Childlike Way: Jesus honored the humility and faith of children. What would it look like for you to trust God with a simple, honest heart this week?
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BOTTOM LINE
God isn’t impressed by cleverness—He’s drawn to honesty, humility, and a heart that stays close to Him.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, help me recognize and reject anything in my heart that leads me away from You. Keep me from the foolish ways that only cause damage, and give me the kind of faith that pleases You. Help me walk in truth, kindness, and love every day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
