The proverb is a variation of the one in 10:23. “Folly delights a man who lacks judgment…” here is “A fool finds pleasure in evil conduct…” in 10:23. “…a man of understanding keeps a straight course” here is “…a man of understanding delights in wisdom” in 10:23. A fool to God is a person who lacks judgment. Fools do find delight, though the subject of their amusement is evil conduct. Such is the way of the sinful nature in all.
The person of understanding also finds delight too, though the subject of their amusement is wisdom in the kingdom of God and the straight course. Abraham rejoiced at the thought of Jesus’ day and was glad. (John 8:56). The large crowds listened to Jesus with delight. (Mark 12:37) These were wise.
What do I delight in? Is it folly or a straight course? A good way to know what is folly and what is sensible is to ask and answer the question, “If Jesus were with me right now would he delight in this?”
