Answer, or Not! (June 4)

Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will be like him yourself.

Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.

                               Proverbs 26:4-5 NIV

Today's verses illustrate what happens in light of contrasting behavior; an inaction, not answering, or an action, answering; in relation to a fool and his folly. 

Discernment, wisdom and the Spirit's guidance are needed to direct our steps in dealing with a fool and his folly.  The word 'fool' has more than one definition, it is a term that envelopes many behaviors, for Webster holds 12 definitions of a fool.  Here are some examples: "a silly or stupid person; a person who lacks judgement or sense; a person who has been tricked or deceived into appearing or acting silly or stupid; an ardent enthusiast who cannot resist an opportunity to indulge an enthusiasm; weak minded or idiotic person."

We are all unique and have different gifts.  As a result, we need to consider others gifts, personalities, situations and relationships in guiding us when we interact with others.  This consideration is needed for dealing with fools and for dealing with others as we carry out the great comission.

As we journey through the Bible, we are reading of many individual's actions and results of those actions.  One consistent, reoccuring concept is: Proverbs 1:7 -that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, but fools despise learning and understanding.  We have read of individual actions that honor and other actions that despise the Lord. The accounts clearly point to God's incomparable, unchanging nature: God honors those who honor Him (wise behavior) and disdains those who despise Him (foolish behavior). 

What kind of responses do you give when you encounter a fool?

Where do you look for guidance in making your choice of response?

How can others tell by your response that you are a Christian?

Pray for the Spirit's guidance as you discern responses.

In Christ,

David P