Dealing with Foolish People
What does the Bible say about foolishness—and how can we recognize it in ourselves and others?
The book of Proverbs is filled with timeless wisdom about the marks of a fool, how to interact with one wisely, and how to avoid becoming one ourselves. Whether in relationships, leadership, or daily conversations, we all encounter foolish behavior—and need guidance on how to respond with discernment.
This blog compiles key verses and practical insights from Scripture to help you:
- Identify the traits of a fool
- Respond with wisdom and grace
- Walk in greater maturity and understanding
Recognizing and Responding to Foolish People: Wisdom from Proverbs
The book of Proverbs offers timeless guidance to help us recognize foolishness, respond wisely, and avoid falling into it ourselves.
1. Foolish People Are Prideful and Arrogant
They think highly of themselves and belittle others. They’re boastful, overconfident, and dismissive of other viewpoints.
Proverbs 3:7 – Fools are wise in their own eyes.
Proverbs 14:3 – Their pride comes out in overbearing, scornful speech.
Proverbs 21:4 – Their haughty attitude sets them above others.
How to Respond:
Proverbs 10:31–32 – Don’t be swayed by their words.
Proverbs 12:16 – Ignore their insults and keep your peace.
2. Foolish People Are Angry and Argumentative
They provoke conflict and speak rashly without understanding.
Proverbs 10:12 – They stir up hatred and division.
Proverbs 12:18; 13:3 – They speak recklessly and too much.
Proverbs 14:29; 15:1 – Quick-tempered and easily provoked.
Proverbs 15:4; 18:2, 8 – Love to argue, gossip, and show off.
Proverbs 20:3 – Fools are always ready to quarrel.
How to Respond:
Proverbs 4:14 – Avoid their company.
Proverbs 7 – Don’t go near their path.
Proverbs 9:6 – Leave the company of fools and stay close to the wise.
Seek out friendships with wise, mature believers who sharpen your character.
3. Foolish People Reject Correction
They resist wisdom and resent those who try to help.
Proverbs 1:22, 24 – Fools hate knowledge and ignore instruction.
Proverbs 9:7–8; 23:9 – They reject rebuke and despise wisdom.
How to Respond:
Proverbs 10:19 – Limit your words.
Proverbs 9:7–8 – Don’t argue or try to correct them—they will only hate you.
4. Foolish People Are Lazy
They avoid work, love comfort, and always have excuses.
Proverbs 6:6–10; 18:9; 19:15, 24; 20:4; 26:13 – They sleep too much, slack off, and are full of excuses.
Proverbs 26:6 – Don’t trust them with responsibility—they won’t follow through.
How to Respond:
Proverbs 25:19 – Don’t rely on them; it leads to disappointment.
5. Foolish People Are Indulgent
They pursue comfort, pleasure, and addiction without restraint.
Proverbs 1:19 – They chase things that lead to ruin.
Proverbs 20:1; 23:21–27; 26:14 – Addictions and laziness go hand in hand.
How to Respond:
Avoid enabling them with excess food or drink.
Steer clear of situations where judgment may be impaired by indulgence.
6. Foolish People Embrace Evil
They reject godly wisdom and follow the world’s ways.
Proverbs 1:19; 9:13; 17:24; 21:15 – They scoff at justice, truth, and God’s Word.
How to Respond:
Matthew 5:44 – Love and pray for them.
Seek God’s strength and wisdom to respond with compassion and truth.
Final Encouragement:
Jesus calls us to walk in wisdom, not pride or folly. Proverbs teaches us not only how to identify foolishness but how to walk uprightly ourselves. With God’s help, we can:
- Stay humble
- Speak gently
- Avoid unnecessary conflict
- Choose wise companions
- Love and pray for those who are lost in folly
“The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall.” —Proverbs 10:8