TREASURES FROM GOD'S WORD, Week of August 11-17, 2025, Let Us Turn Away From Fools, Prepared Speech.

TREASURES FROM GOD'S WORD, August 11-17, 2025, Let Us Turn Away From Fools, Prepared Speech.

Let us turn away from fools (10 mins.)

We live in a world where voices are many, but not all are wise. Every day we encounter people whose words and actions can bring us closer to the truth or further away from it.

The Bible is clear on this point: not all company is edifying, and not all people are worthy of our trust. Wise King Solomon, inspired by Jehovah, gave us firm warnings about how to deal with foolish people.

Today we will reflect on three truths taught by the book of Proverbs: the danger of treating fools as if they were wise, the need to take firm measures with those who persist in their folly, and the risk of entrusting them with important matters.

Normally, the fool does not deserve any honor

LET'S READ PROVERBS 26:1

“Just as snow does not go with summer, nor rain with harvest, neither does honor go with a fool.”

This comparison paints a very clear picture: snow is meaningless in summer, and rain can ruin the harvest in the middle of the harvest. Likewise, honoring a fool is just as inappropriate as these out-of-place events. Recognizing or exalting someone who disrespects divine principles is, in fact, encouraging their folly and giving them an influence that can harm others.

In everyday life, this can happen when we give too much attention, trust, or admiration to people who show no respect for the truth or moral standards. The Bible invites us to be careful about who we listen to, follow, or use as an example.

Often, fools need more drastic disciplinary measures.

LET'S READ PROVERBS 26:3

“The whip is for the horse, the bit is for the donkey, and the rod is for the back of fools.”

This illustration reminds us that sometimes people don't learn with mere words. A horse needs a whip to move, and a donkey needs a bit to control itself. Thus, some need more drastic measures to correct their path.

Jehovah, as a loving Father, always tries to correct us with patience and teaching. But the Bible records that, in Israel's time, he allowed his people to suffer the consequences of their wrong decisions so they would reconsider.

Psalm 107:11-13 describes it this way: “For they had rebelled against God’s word and had not respected the will of the Most High. 12 Then he humbled their hearts with trouble; they fell, and there was no one to help them. 13In their distress they cried to the Lord for help, and he saved them from their desperate situation.”

This teaches us that sometimes, distancing ourselves from foolish people is not only a protective measure for ourselves, but also an act that allows them to face the consequences and have the opportunity to change. However, Scripture warns that some become so hardened that they will suddenly be broken, and that will not heal (Proverbs 29:1).

Fools cannot be trusted

LET'S READ PROVERBS 26:6

“Like someone who cuts off their feet and injures themselves, so is someone who leaves their affairs in the hands of a fool.”

This is a straightforward warning: entrusting a fool with an important responsibility is like hurting yourself before you even begin. No matter how simple the task seems, if the person lacks good judgment, sooner or later harm will occur.

In a spiritual sense, this reminds us not to delegate our convictions, faith decisions, or sacred responsibilities to those who don't fear God. It also prompts us to examine who we allow to influence our personal, family, or spiritual decisions.

Turning away from foolish people doesn't mean being arrogant or looking down on others; it means recognizing that companionship, counsel, and influence are powerful forces in our lives. Just as we wouldn't place a glass in the hands of someone who doesn't value it, we shouldn't place our peace, our decisions, or our faith in the hands of someone who doesn't fear Jehovah.

Illustration

The image in our activity guide shows a young student, with a determined and serious expression, walking away from a group of classmates who seem distracted by a phone. His posture and gaze reflect determination and focus, like someone who has decided not to get caught up in activities that could derail him from his goals.

This visual contrast conveys a clear message: sometimes removing yourself from the influence of fools or those who don't share your values is an act of wisdom and self-control. It represents the conscious choice to protect your personal integrity and remain true to solid principles.

Conclusion

By following the warnings of Proverbs 26:1, 3, 6, we learn to guard our hearts, maintain our spiritual priorities, and give proper value to divine wisdom. May we always seek to surround ourselves with people who inspire us to draw closer to Jehovah and distance ourselves from those whose foolishness might lead us in the wrong direction.