I used to say “stupid” all the time as a kid.
“That’s so stupid.”
“What a stupid idea.”
“I’m so stupid.”
My parents would reprimand me and tell me not to say that word anymore. But I’d argue back, “Some things really are stupid!”
I see their point now. It was wrong to say it recklessly.
But there really are times when no other word applies. There really are situations, ideas, and people that are stupid. Here’s what the Bible says,
Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid. Proverbs 12:1
When God wants to make a point, He really says what He means. And He says hating correction is stupid. In the words of Pastor Steve Murrell, “If you hate correction, this verse says you’re stupid. Don’t be mad at me. I didn’t call you that. God called you stupid.”
Correction is painful, embarrassing, and invasive. But everyone needs it. And to hate it is stupid.
There’s some very good news to this verse: God doesn’t consider it stupid if we make mistakes. It’s only stupid when we hate being corrected for them. It doesn’t matter how naturally smart, talented, or brilliant we are. We’re all imperfect and need correction.
So go ahead and live life fearlessly! Make mistakes! Fail spectacularly! Fall flat on your face. And then receive the correction, thank the person, and make the necessary adjustments. You’re on your way to wisdom.
Don’t be stupid.
