Arguing with Fools

Today’s Proverb is Chapter 26:verses 4 and 5.

“Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be like him.
Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he become wise in his own eyes.”

This may be the most confusing Proverb that Solomon ever spoke. Is he saying
“Do not answer a fool according to his folly,” or is he saying, “Answer a fool according to his folly?”

These thoughts do not actually contradict each other, but rather provide complementary wisdom.

We will have discussions and disagreements, but when you do:
Verse four says, do not argue with someone who will not even consider what he is being taught. To do so is to make yourself just like him. You will both look like a fool. It is fruitless.
Verse five is telling us that when someone makes an argument that is wrong, answer them, else they may go their way and think they made some wise statement and never know there is another side. Answer but don’t nag and fuss.

When a hard-headed person just wants to argue, don’t argue with them. It will just turn into fussing.
When someone makes an ignorant statement, discuss it kindly lest they fail to consider the truth.

To close, I’ll use the words of Galatians 6: verse 1, “If a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.”

Whatever you discuss, do it in a spirit of gentleness.

I’m Lonnie Davis,
And these are thoughts worth thinking.