30 Days in Proverbsਨਮੂਨਾ

Proverbs 26 is a chapter that doesn’t mince words—it’s all about foolishness. In fact, in the ESV translation, the word “fool” pops up ten times. Solomon doesn’t shy away from showing us the many ways folly can show up in life and the consequences of ignoring it.

Some of the gems he gives us include (ESV):

“Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.”
“Whoever sends a message by the hand of a fool cuts off his own feet and drinks violence.”
“Like a thorn that goes up into the hand of a drunkard is a proverb in the mouth of fools.”
“Like a dog that returns to his vomit is a fool who repeats his folly.”
“Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.”

At first glance, we might think, Well, that’s not me. I’m not foolish! But the truth is, foolishness isn’t always dramatic or obvious. It sneaks in in the small ways—how we respond to someone acting foolishly, who we trust to carry important messages, even how we see ourselves. There are degrees of folly, and Solomon wants us to see them clearly.

He also addresses a tough one—the person who returns to sin. This isn’t just a minor stumble; it’s going back to something you’ve been set free from. Paul echoes the same warning in 2 Peter 2:20–22, showing us how devastating it is to return to what you’ve left behind. “If they have escaped the corruption of the world… and are again entangled in it… they are worse off at the end than at the beginning.” It’s a sobering reminder: don’t let past sins regain a foothold in your life. If there’s something lingering from your past, be brave enough to cut it off and step fully into freedom.

Proverbs 26 also touches on laziness and procrastination, reminding us to live with diligence and integrity. It warns against meddling in others’ affairs and encourages us to respect boundaries—a gentle nudge to live wisely in our interactions.

This chapter, though sharp in its imagery, is ultimately a guide. It helps us recognize folly, embrace wisdom, and navigate the twists and turns of life with discernment. Friend, let it be an invitation to pause, evaluate, and choose wisely—not just in what you do, but in what you allow into your life and heart.