BibleProject | The Wisdom of ProverbsSample

Chapter 26: How to Not Be a Fool

Chapter 26 contains character portraits of five sketchy individuals:

• The Fool (verses 1-12)
• The Sluggard (verses 13-16)
• The Meddler (verses 17-19)
• The Whisperer (verses 20-22)
• The Hater (verses 23-28)

This chapter is full of comparisons (the words “like” or “just as” are all over), which usually equates these sketchy people with really bad things (“like a maniac shooting arrows of death,” sheesh!). Notice how many comparisons are drawn from the natural world (sparrows, horses, donkeys, lions, etc.). The overall point is clear: don’t be one of these people!

Don’t be the Fool. He is thoughtless and stupid. He cannot be trusted, nor can he be relied upon. He is a liability to all who send him. Don’t be the Sluggard. He recognizes problems but does nothing about them. He begins jobs that he never knows how to finish. He thinks himself wise but he can’t get out of bed.

Don’t be the Meddler. He goes snooping around and finds nothing but trouble. He causes strife and then calls it a joke. Don’t be the Whisperer. He instigates trouble and keeps the animosity burning. He knows which buttons to push and thinks it's delicious fun. Don’t be the Hater. He harbors a grudge yet comes off like a friend. He flatters and fawns but his deception will be brought out into broad daylight.

As you read this chapter, spend time with each character prayerfully contemplating the prospects of each way of life.