Drink Devotional Method: Fools, Fire, and Faithfulness (Proverbs 26)

Today, we turn to Proverbs chapter 26—a chapter filled with obvious imagery and sobering warnings. As we walk through the powerful contrasts between foolishness and wisdom, let us allow God’s Word to shape our speech, our relationships, and our choices.

D – Devotional Reading

Proverbs 26 (KJV)
1 As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so honour is not seemly for a fool.
2 As the bird by wandering, as the swallow by flying, so the curse causeless shall not come.
3 A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the fool's back.
4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.
5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.
6 He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool cutteth off the feet, and drinketh damage.
7 The legs of the lame are not equal: so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
8 As he that bindeth a stone in a sling, so is he that giveth honour to a fool.
9 As a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard, so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
10 The great God that formed all things both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth transgressors.
11 As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly.
12 Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him.
13 The slothful man saith, There is a lion in the way; a lion is in the streets.
14 As the door turneth upon his hinges, so doth the slothful upon his bed.
15 The slothful hideth his hand in his bosom; it grieveth him to bring it again to his mouth.
16 The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason.
17 He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears.
18 As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death,
19 So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?
20 Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.
21 As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife.
22 The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.
23 Burning lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.
24 He that hateth dissembleth with his lips, and layeth up deceit within him;
25 When he speaketh fair, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart.
26 Whose hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be shewed before the whole congregation.
27 Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him.
28 A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.

R – Reflection

As I read this chapter, I’m reminded how easily we can fall into the traps of foolishness—not just through our actions but through our responses, speech, and associations. Proverbs 26 paints a graphic picture of what foolishness looks like: unteachable, repetitive, deceptive, and dangerous. I see how important it is to not engage in arguments that go nowhere or dignify folly with unnecessary attention. There’s a balance between correcting others and knowing when to walk away. This chapter also cautions me to watch my words. Gossip, flattery, and deceit may seem small, but they carry weight and spark strife. God calls me to choose wisdom over wit, discretion over drama, and peace over provocation.

I – Instruction: Identify key lessons, commands, or promises to follow or hold onto.

Proverbs 26 instructs us to:

• Avoid giving honor to those who live in foolishness (v.1, 8).

• Respond wisely to folly—sometimes with silence, sometimes with truth (v.4–5).

• Reject laziness and excuses (v.13–16).

• Steer clear of meddling in conflicts that aren’t ours (v.17).

• Stop strife by removing gossip (v.20–22).

• Recognize that deceptive words often hide harmful intentions (v.23–28).
  God calls us to walk in wisdom, especially with our speech, relationships, and sense of judgment.

N – Now Live It

Today, I will resist the urge to engage with foolish talk, especially online or in heated discussions. I will evaluate my speech—am I stirring peace or provoking conflict? I will commit to avoiding gossip and flattery, even if it seems harmless. I will also avoid making excuses for laziness and instead be diligent in my responsibilities. With God’s help, I will speak with grace and truth and live with intentional wisdom.

K – Kneel in Prayer

Gracious Lord, Thank You for the warnings and wisdom found in Proverbs 26. Help me not to return to my old ways like a dog to its vomit. Guard my heart against pride, my lips against gossip, and my feet from meddling in things that don’t concern me. Teach me to be wise with my responses, to discern when to speak and when to be silent. Let me be known for peace, honesty, and faithfulness. I ask for the strength to live responsibly, speak with integrity, and pursue righteousness in all I do. In Jesus’ name, amen.

You may also read our Proverbs 25 Devotional.

What is DRINK Devotional Method?

The DRINK Devotional Method is a structured personal devotional approach designed to help believers engage with Scripture to intentionally walk and grow daily with Christ. Each letter in DRINK stands for a step while doing your silent moment with the scripture:

• D – Devotional Reading: Read the selected Bible passage slowly and reverently (Preferably at least 1 chapter).
• R – Reflection: Meditate on the truths revealed and how they apply to our walk with God.
• I – Instruction: Identify key lessons, commands, or promises to follow or hold onto.
• N – Now Live It: Commit to a specific action or change based on what God has shown.
• K – Kneel in Prayer: Close with a sincere prayer, asking the Lord for grace to live out His Word.

Whether you’re just starting a daily devotional habit or seeking a more meaningful Christian devotional routine, DRINK offers a simple yet powerful guide to draw closer to God and let His Word shape your life.

You may also read my daily devotions here.

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