Like cutting off one’s feet or drinking violence is sending a message by a fool’s hand. Proverbs 26:6, TLV
Which Message? Yikes! The first eleven verses of chapter 26 contain some of the most graphic — and yucky — analogies in the book of Proverbs. Like today’s excerpt. “Cutting off one’s foot” and “drinking violence?” All to drive home a point about sending a message with a fool.
The Punchline
If you read on to verse 12, all these verses about the foolishness of fools were a set-up for the punchline.
“Do you see one wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than him.” Proverbs 26:6, TLV
As a writer, I love the technique used here. Pulling the reader into agreeing with the writer about those fools. Then, stirring up images of the fools in their life. Shaking their heads while remembering their own experiences with those fools. When in reality, there was a deeper message.
The climax: a vivid reminder of the importance of humility. With a bit of humor.
Its Own Merits . . .
Even with that brilliance, today’s proverb does have merits on its own. Who would send a message with a fool? Ironically, another fool. Or at least a person not using discernment.
The possible why? I might have an answer to that. In my early years before beginning the Wisdom Journey, I was an extreme people-pleaser. You needed something done, I did it. Wanted something of mine, I gave it.
Irresponsible people were drawn to me because I tended to cover
for them. I was always giving them another chance to do the right thing to be on-time, complete the task. And as you can imagine, I was not only disappointed, but I had a lot of collateral damage that — guess who — had to clean up.
So, who was the bigger fool? I’d say it was yours truly.
Thank the LORD, He guided me to living Proverbs. It has saved me a boatload of unnecessary drama. And for that I am so grateful.
Think More About It
So, which of the two themes resonate most with you? The punchline or people-pleaser? I’d love to know.
Until tomorrow, may we receive the message God has for us, my friends.
Thank you for your continue prayers and support of Israel. God bless you!
