Know-It-Alls

Read Proverbs 1:1-33

4. These proverbs will give insight to the simple, knowledge and discernment to the young.
5. Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser. Let those with understanding receive guidance
6. by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables, the words of the wise and their riddles.
7. Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. . . .
20. Wisdom shouts in the streets. She cries out in the public square.
21. She calls to the crowds along the main street, to those gathered in front of the city gate:
22. “How long, you simpletons, will you insist on being simpleminded? How long will you mockers relish your mocking? How long will you fools hate knowledge?
23. Come and listen to my counsel. I’ll share my heart with you and make you wise.” Proverbs 1:4-7, Proverbs 1:20-23

You can spot the compulsive know-it-all by the way he or she dodges all possibility of admitting wrong. This person will use his or her knowledge to impress others, using words that people won’t understand just to have the satisfaction of seeing them concede his or her superior knowledge. People like this are the ones that everyone tries to avoid at social gatherings.

This first chapter of Proverbs begins, appropriately, with a brief discourse on know-it-alls. The truth presented here is one that you’ve probably thought about before, but never really expressed in words.

Other lessons in this chapter highlight the difference between knowledge and wisdom; dangers in what you hear; and how to get God’s advice.

Know-it-alls may have a great deal of knowledge, but they usually have little wisdom. Solomon called this kind of person a fool (Proverbs 1:7-9).

Much of what we know has no connection to how wise we are; for example, a brilliant surgeon can live a foolish life. Truly wise people know their knowledge is not complete and go to God for wisdom and more knowledge. All that we know has been granted to us by God as a gift for use in serving others and him. Therefore, we should use our knowledge with humility.

Don’t act like a know-it-all, even if you have a lot of knowledge. Remember that all knowledge and wisdom come from God. Give him the glory!