Proverbs 26

The first few verses of the chapter reveal the dangers of a fool.  They also teach the wise man when to avoid and when to confront a fool.  A fool cannot handle honor (vs.1 & 8).  When we put them in a place of honor, we end up hurting everyone around them.

Talking to a fool is worthless.  They only understand pain (v.3).  And sometimes they don’t understand that.

Verses 4 and 5 have often been misunderstood.  They seem to contradict each other.  Do we reply to a fool and his foolish comment or do we not?  I believe the verses are back to back for a reason.  Every situation is different and every situation demands that we use wisdom.  Sometimes, probably most times, it is better not to rebuke or argue with a fool.  You will not convince them because they are not listening.  They have to experience pain (v.3) before their ears are open.  Still, there are other times when we must not allow a foolish comment to go unchallenged.  For the sake of truth, we have to expose the fool’s pride and folly.

Verse 11 is a boundary marker I’ve referred to through the years to see if I’m growing wiser or just remaining a fool.  Am I learning from my mistakes?  If not, I have my answer.

The sluggard has a vivid imagination.  They invent all kinds of ways to get out of work (vs. 13-16).

When we start talking to each other instead of about each other, it’s amazing how fast a quarrel will die down (v.20).  This time of the year many of you will see family and friends that you don’t normally see.  If there is unresolved conflict, take an opportunity to forgive and offer forgiveness.  Life is too short to gossip, slander, and argue.