Expressing Yourself

(Proverbs 9:12 KJV)  If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it.

Wisdom seems to be the opposite of scoffing (NASB) or scorning (KJV).  The two translations have Hebrew words that look different to me but my software says are really the same.  I have to assume it is the type of difference we find in the Declaration of Independence where it talks about unalienable rights.  The modern spelling is inalienable. 

Wisdom breeds humility.  Since we saw two verses before that wisdom is rooted in the fear of God it involves bringing our opinions and positions into alignment with Him.  It may sound arrogant to others for us to claim to know truth but our knowledge comes from beyond ourselves.  Wisdom is marked by patience and explanation.  Wisdom is willing to listen.
 
Scoffing is grounded in arrogance.  The word has the idea of looking down or talking down.  Mocking and boasting are expressions of scoffing.  It always wants to do the talking.

So?  All human beings are born with the image of God stamped on them but corrupted by sin.  Christians are transformed with cleansed hearts.  They are then expected to move on to wisdom.  I hope that scorn and arrogance have been left behind.  If that is not the case then it is time for some repentance.