Bill Fitzhenry's Thoughts For Today

Proverbs 29:9

⁹ If a wise man contends with a foolish man,
Whether the fool rages or laughs, there is no peace.

In all the writer’s instructions about our communication this particular statement is basic to our understanding.

Vs 9A The condition is stated: a wise man is seen potentially in a difference with a fool.

Vs 9B The result of the difference is described: the fool receives no good from the argument and disturbs others.

The conclusion is obvious. “There is no profit in an argument with a fool.” But, there is an even more subtle understanding to be gained. The wise man must be able to judge his adversary – whether he be a fool or not.

Proverbs 20:3

³ It is honorable for a man to stop striving,
Since any fool can start a quarrel.

Proverbs 19:3, 19, 25, 29

³ The foolishness of a man twists his way,
And his heart frets against the LORD.

¹⁹ A man of great wrath will suffer punishment;
For if you rescue him, you will have to do it again.

²⁵ Strike a scoffer, and the simple will become wary;
Rebuke one who has understanding, and he will discern knowledge.

²⁹ Judgments are prepared for scoffers,
And beatings for the backs of fools.