Proverbs 20:3 It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.

Introductory Thoughts

The world constantly and consistently contradicts the truths of God. For instance, it has convinced mankind that it is manly to start a fight and cowardly to cease from strife. As is almost always the case, the world’s natural way of thinking stands in stark contrast to true scriptural teachings. According to scripture, “It is an honour for a man to cease from strife.” This reveals that the most honourable of men are those who through God-given wisdom are able to bring strife to a peaceable resolution without the need for war. A fool, however, continues to meddle until a fight breaks out. The Bible clearly states the dangers of meddling, yet a fool chooses to ignore the scriptural warning to his own hurt.

 Devotional thoughts

  • (For children): A fool does not cease with his words until he has provoked a fight (Proverbs 18:6). The Bible tells us that the best way to prevent a fight is with kind words (Proverbs 15:1; Proverbs 25:15b).
  • (For everyone): How would you describe the Lord’s viewpoint on meddling? What verses would you use to support your perspective? What should you do if you are presently meddling in the affairs of others?
  • Why does the Bible say that a “fool” will continue to meddle? What makes a person a fool? Does a fool choose to do what he wants regardless of the wise warnings from scripture?

Prayer Thoughts

  • Ask the Lord to keep you from being a fool.
  • Ask God for the wisdom necessary to cease from strife.

 

SONG: I AM RESOLVED