Good morning—today is June 3, 2025. After living in Oregon for nearly seven years, I’ve come to appreciate just how unpredictible the weather can be. Around here, they say you can’t trust the forecast before July 4th: “It’s going to be sunny”—and then it rains. “It’s going to rain”—and then the sun comes out! Just like Oregon weather, some sayings seem to contradict each other—and the book of Proverbs is no different. Let’s take a look.
Today's Reading:
Proverbs 25,26,27; Romans 15
Scripture
“Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him.
Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.”
(Proverbs 26:4–5)
Observation
Which is it—don’t answer a fool, or call them out?
At first glance, it looks like a contradiction. But it’s not. It’s a call to use wisdom and discernment in how we respond.
No matter what kind of emotional or spiritual “weather” the day brings, Solomon reminds us: It depends. Wisdom means not letting your emotions drag you down to a fool’s level. But there are also moments—like when a loved one speaks rashly—where a gentle correction is needed.
“Sometimes silence is wisdom. Sometimes correction is necessary.”
Application
In both cases, one thing is clear: we need to pump the emotional brakes before reacting. Give yourself time to pray, pause, and process.
Like a gentleman opening the door for his date, we must open the door for the Holy Spirit to step in first and guide our response.
Reflective Questions:
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Will silence validate arrogance—or invite humility?
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Will my answer be a stumbling block or a stepping stone?
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Will my response bring healing or cause harm?
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Will I raise up a fool—or lower myself to their level?
Prayer
Dear Lord,
I come to You seeking wisdom and discernment. Just as You met people where they were, help me to do the same. Give me the patience to pause, the humility to listen, and the courage to speak only when You lead. In foggy moments, teach me to wait for Your light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
- Aaron Cordeiro