“It is honorable for a man to stop striving, since any fool can start a quarrel” (Proverbs 20:3).
Fools have very distinct characteristics and abilities. None are flattering or praiseworthy. These inspired words of Solomon identify a trait every fool has: the ability to start a needless and pointless quarrel.
Fred Jones is a wise and insightful educational counselor in the area of classroom management. One of his maxims is: “It takes one fool to start an argument but two to continue it.” Many a parent and teacher have been guilty of being the second fool. His point was simply that when an adult has given clear directions to a youngster which are understood, there is no follow up “conversation” (i.e. argument). Child psychologist John Redmond gives counsel to parents which echoes this.
The same approach to God and His word is the mindset of a wise person. When God states something clearly and concisely (which He does), then the matter is settled. Only a fool places a comma, then says “but…” when God has placed a period. (Even Satan doesn’t do that! [See Mathew 4:4, 7, 10]).
Often a foolish disagreement evolves into a bitter quarrel because both fools involved want to have the last word. In their minds, their pride disguised as their “honor” is at stake; therefore, they have to have the final (and triumphal) say. Disputes which do not result in godly edification which is in the faith are to be immediately aborted, if they are not avoided entirely (1 Tim. 1:3-7). Disputes and arguments over words which are the life work of a fool must be aborted immediately, if they are not avoided entirely (1 Tim. 6:3-6). It is not dishonorable to promptly walk away from a fool spoiling for a quarrel.
Any fool can start an argument, only an honorable, wise man walks away from one with a fool.
