In the 1970s, a secular group recorded a popular song, “Everybody Plays the Fool.” I was a teenager at the time, and I remember hearing people use that phrase often, especially with relationships. Over our lifetime, I am sure we have all applied that phrase to ourselves. Just think about the foolish things you have done, especially in terms of matters of the heart. Some things give us a good laugh, while others bring heartache and pain into our life. Nature always takes its natural course, and yes, we have all acted foolishly from time to time. Hopefully, as we mature, our behavior should gain maturity, and we should be less associated with foolish things. However, periodically, we need to take a close look at ourselves and ask the question, “Am I a Fool?”
In this season, where there is more uncertainty, loneliness, and isolation, it is easy to accept treatment that generally one would not receive. But, how much is your sanity worth to you? Should one be more tolerant of another person’s behavior that infringes on their peace of mind, joy, and satisfaction in life? Do you overlook situations or justify them to make what is not correct seem alright on the outside? At what cost is foolishness or emotionally degrading behavior acceptable? When is it necessary to stop and ask yourself, “Am I a Fool?”
Consequently, when does being pleasant and helpful change to being taken advantage of instead? Sometimes, especially Christian women, feel they always have to be accomodating, always the giver, the one smiling and accepting whatever comes their way. The devil is a liar! Being a child of God and saved does not mean you have to be someone’s doormat. Additionally, you have to know when enough is enough. Hey, if you don’t value your life and well-being, do you really think someone else will? Ask yourself, “Am I a Fool?”
As I end this post, my sisters, if you remember nothing else, remember this: You are somebody worth fighting for; you should be loved and treated with dignity and cherished. Your needs, health, peace of mind, and joy are essential. You are valuable. Know when to accept and know when to reject. Some situations in our life we are responsible for because we allow them to happen. In other words, we don’t take a stand. “Am I a Fool?” God forbid! A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards. Proverbs 29:11. I’ll be back next week with a new post, “Iron Sharpens Iron!”
Be encouraged, and God bless!
Sister Jackie
Very good, I haven’t asked myself that question, but have felt being taken advantage of. I learned to choose my battles and it is up to me what I tolerate. Afterwards I don’t hate myself for the decision. I don’t believe anyone else can be expected to measure the stance of another’s heart. Love you
Thank you for your thought-provoking comments. Choosing our battles is so essential. I never really think about it, but accepting things that are not conducive to our well-being can generate hateful feelings that we don’t want to feel. And very accurate, our “heart” is our responsibility. Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom on this topic. May God’s loving grace continue to bless and uplift you in all that you set your hand to do. 💖
There are times that I have to remind myself that I am valuable, precious and worthy of respect at all times. Therefore I can’t allow people to handle me as if I’m not. Just because I ignore the stupidity of others does not in any way mean that I accept their behavior – sometimes stupidity doesn’t require my attention, time or judgement!!!
Amen! Well said, my Sister! I like that statement, “sometimes stupidity doesn’t require my attention, time, or judgment!!!” Thank you so much for sharing those insightful words. May God continue to bless you and keep you in His loving care!