"The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.' They are corrupt, their deeds are vile; there is no one who does good. The Lord looks down from heaven on all mankind to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God."

Psalm 14:1-2

In today’s passage, foolishness carries undesirable connotations. Fools live in rebellion against the Lord. They differ from agnostics in that they are fully cognizant of the truth about God but choose to live their lives disregarding him and his word. Fools also mock sin; they ‘sit in the company of mockers (Ps 1:1).’

That intellectual decision to disregard God has practical implications in the moral realm. Psalm 14 mentions a downward spiral into corruption, abominable works, and iniquity. Their conduct leads to disastrous social policies that destroy the lives of the poor and oppressed, who are eaten up (v. 4). Materialism, deep-rooted individualism, indifference to the socially disadvantaged, and disregard for God and His eternal plan may earn us the nickname "fool."

Closing Prayer

Loving Lord, teach me to be accountable in all my significant relationships: to my spouse, children, parents, colleagues, church leaders, civic and national authorities, and, above all, to you (edited from Encounter with God).