Word Pictures

Proverbs 14:3 (KJV) In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.

In looking at the Hebrew for “rod of pride” I came up with my own paraphrase or word picture.  “Pride” has to do with a swelling or a wave on the ocean.  “Rod” can be a twig or stick. I had a vision of touching an overinflated balloon with a sharp stick.

So I suggest, “The mouth of a fool will burst his bubble.”

Where I actually started with this involved the questions I ask during a Bible study.  There are so many questions I have and they don’t seem to get answered when I am silent.  What is even more frustrating is that they don’t get answered when I speak up.  Am I being foolish for asking, am I am a fool because I have a question, am I a fool for expecting an answer?

So?  I guess we should let the pressure build until our mouths can’t take it any more.  When it is too much, ask away but it might be better to ask the Lord and have Him guide your study.