Every day we make choices. Some seem small, like what to watch or how to reply to a message. Others feel huge, like a job change or a relationship decision. But all of them add up. They lead us down one of two paths: the path of wisdom or the path of folly. The book of Proverbs paints this picture vividly, as if two women were calling out to us in the street.
In Proverbs 9, wisdom and folly each build a house and invite people in. Wisdom says in Proverbs 9:1-6, “Wisdom has built her house; she has hewn her seven pillars. She has slaughtered her beasts; she has mixed her wine; she has also set her table. She has sent out her young women to call from the highest places in the town, ‘Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!’ To him who lacks sense, she says, ‘Come, eat of my bread and drink of the wine I have mixed. Leave your simple ways, and live, and walk in the way of insight.’” (ESV)
Wisdom prepares something solid and lasting. She offers authentic food and drink that satisfies. Her invitation leads to life and understanding. She calls the simple ones who know they need help and promises growth.
But folly does something different. Proverbs 9:13-18 describes her: “The woman Folly is loud; she is seductive and knows nothing. She sits at the door of her house; she takes a seat on the highest places of the town, calling to those who pass by, who are going straight on their way, ‘Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!’ And to him who lacks sense she says, ‘Stolen water is sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.’ But he does not know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of Sheol.” (ESV)
Folly is loud and flashy. She promises quick pleasure and excitement. Her offer looks tempting, like something forbidden that will feel good. But it hides death. Her house leads to ruin.
Proverbs 4:10-11 guides us: “Hear, my son, and accept my words, that the years of your life may be many. I have taught you the way of wisdom; I have led you in the paths of uprightness.” (ESV)
And Proverbs 4:18-19 contrasts the paths: “But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day. The way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know over what they stumble.” (ESV)
Wisdom’s path gets brighter. Folly’s path stays dark, full of hidden dangers.
These chapters show us that both voices call out every day. Wisdom often sounds quieter. It calls for discipline, patience, and saying no to shortcuts. Folly shouts louder, promising instant fun without consequences.
In real life, this plays out in simple choices. Wisdom says save money, speak kindly, forgive quickly, and obey God. Folly says spend it all now, say whatever feels good, hold that grudge, and do what you want.
I have seen people follow folly and later regret it. Broken relationships, lost opportunities, and empty chasing after more. But I have also seen people choose wisdom day after day. Their lives grow steadier, fuller, and more joyful over time.
Your future is built on today’s choices. Listen for wisdom’s voice. Turn into her house. Leave simple ways behind and walk toward life.
What about you? Which voice is louder in your life right now? Choose wisdom today, one decision at a time, and watch your path grow brighter.