The Man of Wisdom Will Not Dispute a Fool

Proverbs 26:1–16
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Fools are those who make fun of sin and refuse to heed the voice of wisdom. 

(1) Honoring a fool is Dangerous. Just as weather out of season can destroy crops, a fool raised to a position of honor will hurt everyone who follows him (v. 1). Giving honor to a fool is useless, just as a stone securely tide into a sling (think David & Goliath) is useless (v. 8). We should remember that before we award “participation” trophies. Honor shouldn’t be handed out cheaply. 

(2) Fools are like animals. Since fools reject the rule of reason and wise counsel, they are instead forced to be lead like a beast of burden with rod, whip, and bridle (v. 3). A fool is like a dog in that they both return to that which goes against nature again and again (v. 11). 

(3) Talking with a fool is Dangerous: When we answer a fool with the same egotistical spirit that they have, we are drawn down to their level (v. 4). But to leave a foolish statement unchallenged will only strengthen the fool in his self-assuredness (v. 5). Therefore, the man of wisdom will not argue with a fool but will instead employ clear judgement and decisive statements to challenge and expose the fool’s shallowness. 

(4) Hiring a fool is Dangerous: Fools cannot be trusted with messages (v. 6), and a proverb in a fool’s mouth is useless (v. 7). A proverb misused can hurt people, like a drunkard swinging a thornbush (v. 9). If you hire a fool to work with you, you might as well shoot all your customers with arrows (v. 10) as that’s how much damage a fool can cause through their lack of judgment. 

A sluggard is a lazy person who is always inventing excuses for not working (vv. 13-14). He is almost too lazy to lift food from the dish to his mouth (v. 15). This type of person sticks to his opinions and defends his views even when the disgust of others is evident (v. 16).

Application

Lord, please reveal any foolish way in me, and give me your wisdom as I seek You.