No Less, No More

Much of life is experienced in the middle—that vast space in between the highs and lows of life. According to Proverbs 26, wisdom is likewise found in the middle, specifically that space between under-exerting ourselves and, on the other hand, overstepping clear boundaries the Lord has put in place for us.

The first 12 verses of Proverbs 26 remind us of a character that is no stranger in the book of Proverbs—the fool. And while the fool may indeed be a familiar face, what we see in the latter half of Proverbs 26 is that foolishness can be wrapped in at least a couple of different appearances.

First, we see the fool in the laziness of the sluggard (Verses 13-16). The sluggard (or “slothful”) is the fool who under-exerts himself, failing to live with any sense of ambition or urgency. Sadly, the sluggard often doesn’t even realize his own foolishness (Verse 16).

We also see the fool in the person who over-exerts himself. He meddles in affairs he has no business involving himself (Verse 17). He connivingly plots to deceive his neighbor (Verse 18). He over-speaks by engaging in unnecessary and damaging conversations (Verses 20-26).

If Proverbs 26 gives us two end marks on the spectrum of foolishness, we would be wise to aim for the middle. Wisdom is found in “staying in your lane”—faithfully stewarding the opportunities and responsibilities the Lord has entrusted to you. No less, no more.

Reflective Questions:

1.  In what ways or areas of life are you easily tempted to under-exert yourself? In other words, what has the Lord called you to that you have neglected to do?

2. In what ways or areas of life are you easily tempted to over-exert yourself? In other words, where are you overstepping boundaries that the Lord has put in place for you?

3. We all have blind spots. Who can you ask to help you identify the areas in your life where you are prone to under- or over-exert yourself? Ask for help to identify them so you’re less likely to return to them.

Memory Verse:

As a dog returns to his own vomit, so a fool repeats his folly. Proverbs 26:11

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for the middle. Help me to balance my life by not under-exerting nor by over-exerting, but rather to be faithful right where you have entrusted me.