"A man who separates himself seeks his own desire; he quarrels ('breaks out') against all sound wisdom." (Proverbs 18:1, NASB)
As is the case with much of English Scripture, there are many interpretations of our text. For me, however, our text says that this man only wants his way, is only interested in what he himself believes, and will not listen to or learn from others. If he is in a discussion, only his input matters. He tolerates at best and doesn't listen to others at worst. He does not need to listen, because he already knows everything. He's like the guy who responded to Chuck Colson once when asked about his definition of the Church. "I'm my own church."
Jesus demonstrates for us the epitome of listening; and that is the reason He never uttered religious cliches in dealing with hurting people. He listened to their hearts' cry. Jesus listens because Jesus cares.
Father, in Jesus' Name, help me to be a listener and value others. Amen.
When Peter, an 18 year old Norwegian, "heard the call to evangelize China, on that day he not only emptied his wallet into the collection plate, but included a small note with the words, 'and my life.'"
Hebrews 12:2
