Proverbs 18:12-13 (ESV)
12 Before destruction a man’s heart is haughty,
but humility comes before honor.
13 If one gives an answer before he hears,
it is his folly and shame.
The arrogant and the humble are placed in contrast to one another. The Lord will honor the humble woman, as she genuinely seeks the welfare of others. But the prideful person lifts her agenda above the needs of those around her. It doesn’t matter who is offended, as long as she gets her way. Having never understood her need for mercy and taken hold of the grace of God, she doesn’t understand how to extend kindness to others. Even in conversation, she refuses to listen, yet she is always eager to throw out what she thinks and her opinion about how things should be done. Immersed in her self-centered thoughts, she fails to learn from those around her, actually seeing herself as superior. The next time you communicate with someone, pay attention long enough to hear God’s wisdom through her life experience. May we all be less anxious to speak and more determined to listen today.