Strifing

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

“Strife” (7379) and what the KJV calls “meddling” (1566) are connected.  The NASB has “quarrel” (1566).  The word means to “lay bare” or “expose”.  You can imagine how exposing what is hidden can lead to an argument and hot tempers. 

At the same time we are called to reprove, rebuke and correct.  When you consider that the continued mention of discipline and instruction are tied to the rod in Proverbs it is hard to avoid that responsibility for parents and friends.  There is a sense in which we are commanded to meddle. 

So how do we put it together?

We keep looking and asking the Holy Spirit to bring to mind what we need.  At another place in Proverbs it warns us against trying to teach a fool. 

(Proverbs 23:9 KJV)  Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.

There is a lesson here.  We are not to be trying to spiritually correct the world.  They generally reject the teaching of the Bible and the holiness of God.  We are to exhort our fellow believers.  One indication of their maturity is whether they listen or not.  One mark of our spiritual maturity is not being so ready to act like we are the wise one.

So?  This is repeated so many ways.  Keep your nose at home and your lips on slow.  There will usually be plenty of time and opportunity to help others along the road.  Make sure they are willing to listen and double check your own attitude.