Two-minute read.
Like snow in summer and like rain in harvest, So honor is not fitting for a fool.
Proverbs 26:1
“Honor inappropriate to fools,” begins the commentary on this verse in the Expositor’s Bible Commentary. A smile adorns my face as I think of my week and the “fool” I encountered. When visiting a favorite restaurant, the perfect storm of an unexpected rush, lack of servers, and my long day created an unforeseen issue. The manager handled the situation poorly and got himself into trouble, speaking without thinking and letting his emotions rule his actions. God used the experience in my life to practice grace and, once again, reinforce that I can do hard things.
My heart aches for the manager because I have done what he did and allowed my emotions to control my actions, creating problems for myself. Thankfully, God’s grace gives me a second chance and will enable me to try and do better the next time. The Lord doesn’t honor fools, but He does give them opportunities to grow, and as His followers, we should do the same. Remembering what Christ did for us, fools in our sin, helps me to let go of my selfish desires and put on the cloak of Jesus. Without Him, I wouldn’t have life and have it in abundance.
We all encounter fools and act foolishly. Human imperfection leads to bad decisions and emotional responses. Walking with Jesus allows us to learn from our mistakes and try again. As we accept the Lord’s grace, we receive it to share with others, remembering that none of us deserve the forgiveness Christ gave us on the cross.
Fools don’t receive honor, but they do receive grace. And sometimes, we must extend it, even when we don’t want to do it. What Christ gives, He expects us to share with others.
Prayer:
Lord, forgive us for acting foolishly. Please help us learn wisdom as we seek You, accept Your grace, and extend it to others. Give us eyes to see and ears to hear our foolish ways, looking to You for wisdom to do better.
IJNIP. Amen
