Proverbs 26:1-12
It is not honour but hard knocks which bring a fool to take the way of wisdom (vv. 1-8). In general, the discipline of the Lord and the reproof of a righteous man lead us to make more progress than compliments and honour. But we should not be without understanding, like domestic animals which can only be made to obey by the whip and bridle "or they will not come unto thee" (v. 3; Psalms 32:9 JND translation). How much better it is to acquire wisdom by allowing ourselves to be taught by the Word rather than by going through painful experiences.
The example of the prophet Micaiah before Ahab shows us that vv. 4 and 5 do not contradict each other (1 Kings 22:13-28). In replying to the foolish king according to his folly (v. 15), Micaiah touched the king’s conscience, putting him ill at ease. In replying to him then according to the divine mind and no longer according to his folly, the man of God showed clearly that he had no part with the folly (v. 17).
An unsteady walk, whether that of the righteous man (Proverbs 25:26) or of the fool (Proverbs 26:7; Proverbs 26:9) takes away all the power of the testimony of their words. Let us watch that our feet are shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15).