Proverbs 23:9,12 Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words. Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge. 

Many hear the truth outwardly yet remain unchanged inwardly because they do not truly receive it with humility and obedience. God desires truth “in the inward parts” (Psa. 51:6). Applying the heart to wisdom means loving correction more than comfort, valuing truth above personal opinion, and seeking God’s ways above human reasoning. It requires meekness, prayer, meditation on Scripture, and a willingness to obey even when obedience is costly. True wisdom is not merely intellectual attainment but the formation of a godly life.

Listening is one of the clearest marks of humility. A wise person understands that growth begins by hearing. Scripture repeatedly says, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear” (Mat. 11:15). To “give ear” means more than simply hearing sounds; it means attentive, eager, and receptive listening. Pride interrupts, assumes, and resists instruction, but humility listens carefully and weighs counsel rightly. The fool believes he already knows enough, while the wise person remains teachable throughout life (1:5). Even Jesus, in His earthly walk, listened and learned within the order appointed by the Father (Luke 2:46-47, 52). Knowledge received with humility becomes wisdom in practice. Listening guards against error, deepens understanding, and opens the way for correction and maturity. Many problems arise not because the truth was unavailable, but because people refused to listen. Therefore, the wise cultivate a quiet and attentive spirit before God, His Word, and godly counsel.

Proverbs 23:9,12 Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words. Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge. 

Wisdom recognises that not every heart is ready to receive truth. A fool is not merely someone lacking knowledge, but one who despises correction and resists instruction. Even wise counsel, spoken graciously and clearly, may be mocked by a hardened heart. Jesus Himself instructed His disciples not to cast pearls before swine (Matt. 7:6), teaching that sacred truth should not be continually poured into those who trample it underfoot. There is a difference between patient teaching and fruitless striving. Wisdom discerns the condition of the listener and understands that some conversations require silence, prayer, or waiting for God to bring conviction. Rehoboam rejected the counsel of wise elders and listened instead to foolish advice, bringing division upon the kingdom (1Kin. 12:6-16). A teachable spirit welcomes correction, but pride despises it (Pro. 15:12). Therefore, wisdom not only knows what to say, but also when to speak, when to refrain, and where spiritual investment will bear fruit.

Wisdom is not gained casually or accidentally. Scripture calls for deliberate pursuit: “apply your heart.” This speaks of intentional devotion, inward surrender, and a willingness to be shaped by truth. Knowledge that remains only in the mind cannot transform character; wisdom must penetrate the heart. Solomon repeatedly urged his sons to incline their hearts to understanding (2:2), because the heart directs the course of life (4:23).

To be continued…