Summer Part 3
Proverbs 26:1 NLT
Honor is no more associated with fools than snow with summer or rain with harvest.
King Solomon, who was world renowned for his wisdom, wrote this proverb. He was observing the character traits of a fool.
Honor
The first word of this proverb is honor which means abundance, riches, reputation, dignity and reverence (1).
Fool
The word for fool in the Hebrew means someone who is stupid, dull, and one who is arrogant (2).
What is Solomon saying?
Solomon is identifying a foolish person by addressing the traits not found in their life. For instance, abundance and riches are associated with those who are diligent workers, know how to save for a rainy day, and become a benefactor to others. People of good reputation are honest and treat others with kindness. Dignity is seen when someone acts appropriately and classy especially in trying circumstances. Reverent people respect authority and treat everyone as valuable.
Fools are dull in character and you won’t find any of these traits evident in their life. They are not hardworking. They don’t save their money or help others out financially. They are dishonest and treat others badly. They respond to circumstances in the most inappropriate manner and they have absolutely no regard for authority.
Where does the arrogance come in?
And here is the clincher. A fool will always consider themselves better than everyone else. They do not consider anyone as valuable. People are only a tool to be used for their own selfish purposes.
What can we learn from this proverb?
When we consider someone to befriend, or a business partner, a spouse, a mentor, etc… be discerning of the people you connect with in life. Ask God to direct you to people who are godly, diligent in work ethic, handle their finances well, of good reputation, honest, kind, conduct themselves with class and dignity, and respect authority.
In the Middle East, it will never snow in the summer or rain at harvest time. So these character traits of honor will never be found in the life of a fool.
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