Proverbs: Chapter 26

For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ website.

Salient points:

• The first section of this chapter deals with fools (vs.1-12, with the possible exception of v.2).
• Vs.4 and 5 don't contradict one another. "According to" refers to sinking to the fool's level in v.4, but connotes as they fool deserves in v.5. People who find contradictions in Proverbs have not received training in how to interpret Wisdom literature -- especially the way a saying, maxim, or adage usually captures only one facet of the truth. Click to learn more about interpreting the Wisdom Literature of the Bible.
• Use the proverbs (v.7)!
• Even armed with the truth we can hurt others (v.9). Preachers: be careful.
• Don't be wise in your own eyes (v.12 and v.16).
• The second section of this chapter deals with sluggards (vs.13-16).
• The sluggard exhibits fear and excuses (v.13), laziness (vs.14-15), and pride (v.16). He has serious character issues!
• The third section of the chapter is about things we say (vs.17-28).
• Avoid quarrels not your own (v.17). We don't always have to insert ourselves or save the day; someone else can do it.
• The maniac deceives, or fools around, inappropriately (vs.18-19).
• Both of these (v.17 and vs.18-19) are instances of poor judgment.

Challenge for today:

• Indiscipline is a character issue.
• If we lack discipline (if we're sluggards), we have a serious character issue. It's not a little thing.
• See supplement for a list of character-related words similar to "sluggard."

Tomorrow: Proverbs 27