25.013 | THE FOLLY OF ISOLATION | Proverbs 18:1-2 | God's word for today with Pastor Nazario Sinon

God’s Word For Today

Text: Proverbs 18:1-2 (ESV)

1Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire;

he breaks out against all sound judgment.

2A fool takes no pleasure in understanding,

but only in expressing his opinion

THE FOLLY OF ISOLATION

This proverb speaks out against being hardened to the views and experiences of others. The context implies that this "isolation" is less about distance and personality, and more about beliefs and understanding. The "isolating" person exhibits a superior attitude, as if other people's judgment is beneath them. Such a person can never expand their horizons; they will be left with only limited knowledge.

This verse indicates that the "isolating" person is not being passive. Such an attitude means fighting against good sense. The Hebrew word translated in the ESV as "breaks out" can also be rendered as "quarrels." This person who isolates themselves from anything they don't want to hear is said to be in an "echo chamber. He is a person who only entertains information or opinions that reflect and reinforce their own. The term is a metaphor based on an acoustic echo chamber, in which sounds reverberate in a hollow enclosure.

The next verse (v.2) evokes similar truths about these people. They just want to express their own opinions, Such attitudes are not healthy. However, for believers, it is important for them to examine their positions and seek truth, even if it means admitting error (Acts 17:11; Prov 18:13, 17).

Another thing to note as believers not to isolate is to eliminate all contact with unbelievers. Yes, we should not participate in the sins of unbelievers but should not cut off our contact with the lost. We are in this world but not of this world. Take note that Jesus associated with tax collectors and sinners (Mat 11:19). But, He remained sinless (Hebrews 4:15). He emphasized that He was not removing His followers from the world but was sending them into the world (John 17:18). When He issued the Great Commission, He commanded His followers to go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to everyone (Mat 28:19–20). We are the light and salt of the world. Thus, we should not ‘isolate’ but ‘insulate’ ourselves to be effectual ‘influence’ for Christ in this darkened world.

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