Proverbs 15:14
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The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness.
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Wise men love learning and crave knowledge; but fools love amusing themselves with foolishness. A man of understanding is not content with knowledge; he wants more! But a fool never considers his ignorance; he continues to make folly the goal of his life!
If you hear both talk, the wise man says little, knowing his knowledge is limited; the fool, knowing nothing, belches nonsense, declaring to all that he is a fool (Eccl 10:3,12-14). Ah, reader! How is it with you? Do you want to learn? Or do you want to talk?
Solomon made the contrast often, "Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom. A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself" (18:1-2). See the comments on 18:1 and 18:2. Is your desire for knowledge so great, you organize life accordingly? Does pursuing wisdom get top billing in your life? Or do you use life to tell others what your heart has imagined?
Your character is visible. If you seek knowledge, you will read the Bible, love preaching, associate with wise men, and avoid folly in every form. If you are an ignorant fool, you will emphasize business, health, hobbies, amusement, and chitchat. Which do you prefer? The Bible or your favorite newsletter? Preaching or pleasure? Or is preaching a pleasure? Do you think you know a lot? Or do you crave knowing more? This difference is great!
Cornelius wanted truth! He gathered family and friends to hear Peter (Ac 10:24). God told him that Peter could teach him the truth, so he said to Peter, "Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God" (Ac 10:33).
But what of Simon the sorcerer! He heard Peter preach as well, but his belief and baptism were pretensions to see if he could get a little miracle power for himself (Ac 8:9-24). He wanted to buy the Holy Spirit, so he could still be an important player in Samaria! Fool!
Israel chose to hear preaching in Nehemiah 8. They held a great celebration, because they were so glad to understand the word of God. And they kept asking for more, continuing the preaching and celebration for seven days, even though it added to their duties.
Wise men, including the queen of Sheba, came to hear Solomon's wisdom, but a greater preacher than Solomon has come (I Kgs 4:29-34; Matt 12:42). Do you crave learning of Him (Matt 11:28-30)? Have you besought your preacher for more of Him (Ac 13:42)?
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