Day 50 - Do not answer a fool according to his folly

Today's Reading is Proverbs 26:1–12 (NIV)

1 Like snow in summer or rain in harvest,

 honor is not fitting for a fool.

2 Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow,

 an undeserved curse does not come to rest.

3 A whip for the horse, a bridle for the donkey,

 and a rod for the backs of fools!

4 Do not answer a fool according to his folly,

 or you yourself will be just like him.

5 Answer a fool according to his folly,

 or he will be wise in his own eyes.

6 Sending a message by the hands of a fool

 is like cutting off one’s feet or drinking poison.

7 Like the useless legs of one who is lame

 is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.

8 Like tying a stone in a sling

 is the giving of honor to a fool.

9 Like a thornbush in a drunkard’s hand

 is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.

10 Like an archer who wounds at random

 is one who hires a fool or any passer-by.

11 As a dog returns to its vomit,

 so fools repeat their folly.

12 Do you see a person wise in their own eyes?

 There is more hope for a fool than for them.

Questions to Consider about the Reading:

1. What does this passage say about the nature and danger of foolishness?
2. How can wisdom help us deal with foolish people in our lives?
3. Why is humility key to avoiding the trap of being "wise in our own eyes"?
4. What images or comparisons stand out as the most striking or memorable?
5. What’s one area where you need wisdom in dealing with conflict or pride?

What's One Thing God Wants You to Underline?

Ending Prayer

God, protect me from pride and the pull of foolishness. Give me wisdom in how I speak and when I stay silent. Help me to grow in humility and to see myself and others clearly through Your eyes. Amen.