“Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly.”–Proverbs 16:22
In 2008 and 2009, public schools in Atlanta, Georgia, saw an impressive increase in student test scores. Schools where a majority of the students had been struggling suddenly were producing students scoring well above grade level. Accolades followed, and many teachers and principals received raises and bonuses. Atlanta School Superintendent Beverly Hall was named national superintendent of the year. Teachers and leaders from other parts of the country wanted to know the secret to Atlanta’s amazing success.
Then the house of cards came crashing down. Following rumors of widespread cheating, special investigators appointed by the governor of Georgia determined that the improvement of test scores had nothing to do with student performance and everything to do with educators cheating. In 2013 nearly three dozen educators were indicted on charges of racketeering, theft, conspiracy and lying. The investigation revealed that they would gather in “grading parties” where teachers would sit around and change the students’ wrong answers to correct ones. Many of the teachers claimed they had not wanted to go along with the scheme but felt “forced” to do so.
Unfortunately not everyone who is in a position of authority and leadership is going to give you wise teaching and counsel. Some will look for shortcuts in their own lives and encourage you to do the same. They will tell you how to get around the rules—both man’s rules and God’s rules—and show you the “benefits” they have gained by doing so. If you listen to these teachers of folly, your life will surely suffer as a result. Instead you should look for those who live and teach God’s wisdom and accept their input and direction. The instruction of fools may seem wise to man for a short time, but it leads to disaster.–
Be vigilant in who you allow to influence your life—seek out those with understanding and wisdom.(Daily in the Word)
