July 2nd~Fools and Flocks

Proverbs 25:1-29:27

We covered 138 proverbs spanning multiple topics, such as friendship, foolishness, character, political observations, and parental advice. Here are some of my favorites:

“A person without self-control is as defenseless as a city with broken-down walls” (25:28).

“Don’t praise yourself; let others do it” (27:2). “As iron sharpens iron, a friend sharpens friend” (27:17).

“When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. But with wise and knowledgeable leaders, there is stability” (28:2).

“Pride ends in humiliation, while humility brings honor” (29:23).

I’d like to focus on two proverbs that I think are weighty for us today. First, “When arguing with fools, don’t answer their foolish arguments, or you will become as foolish as they are. When arguing with fools, be sure to answer their foolish arguments, or they will become wise in their own estimation” (26:4, 5). These two verses appear to be contradictory; one says don’t answer a fool while the other says do answer a fool. What does this mean? The second half of each verse provides the meaning.

First, instead of fool, we might use the term “skeptic,” or someone who is opinionated and likes to talk a lot, though he might not know what he is saying. People like this tend to frustrate us, which is why Solomon warns us not to be foolish in our response, meaning not to be rude, get angry, or speak harshly. The way that we respond in situations like these is just as important as the words we say.

However, Solomon follows up with the truth that we cannot remain silent. We must say something, otherwise the foolish person believes his views to be right. Knowing what to say and how to say it requires wisdom and skill. It is important to challenge faulty thinking while not burning any bridges or losing friends.

A second insightful proverb is this one, “Know the state of your flocks and put your heart into caring for your herds... for your sheep will provide wool for clothing and your goats will be sold for the price of a field...” (27:23-27). While Solomon may have been exhorting farmers and shepherds, he might as well have been advising those in leadership positions.

Perhaps the best advice I can give to any leader, no matter what his position — boss, parent, pastor, teacher — is to know the condition of your flock. In other words, work hard at knowing and caring for the people for which you are responsible. It will pay off in the end. Not only will your “herd” be happier and healthier, they will reward you with kindness and care.

Daily Reflection

How would you evaluate your responsiveness to proud, opinionated people who speak their mind? How good are you at challenging faulty thinking without burning bridges?

Who are the “sheep” the Lord has put in your care? Do you know the condition of your flock? Dealing with sheep can get messy, but there is no more effective way to lead than to be up close and personal. You cannot effectively lead your sheep and keep your distance.

BiAY.org | Day 183 — 182 Days to Go