Daily Proverb - Proverbs, Chapter 17

"Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out"

As I think about this verse, a thought comes to mind, our ways are not God's ways!  Read the verse again and y0u must admit how true this is.  Isn't our way to prove we are right?  I know that in my own life, I would have avoided many silly arguments, if only I would have applied Godly wisdom.  If I would have simply dropped the matter, the argument would not have happened.  Our sinful pride often leads us to take a stand, present our case and argue as a lawyer in a court room.  We insist on justice, and we argue until we get, what we think is justice, or should I say, until we win! Do you ever truly win an argument?  When I as a boy my dad gave me some good advice, he said stay out of fist fights, you will not win, even if it appears you are the winner.  He said you will hurt your own fist by punching another boy.  I can see that Dad gave good advice, even if it appears that you won the argument,  you suffer!    "so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out"!

"He who loves a quarrel loves sin; he who builds a high gate invites destruction"

Can you see the truth in this verse, how the lover of quarreling is also the one who loves sin?  The result of sin is ALWAYS pain!  Never think that your sin will go unpunished.  If you love to argue with others, sin will be present!  Harsh words spoken, can crush the spirit of others, is that your purpose, to crush others? Sin!

"A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered. Even a fool is thought to be wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue."

Amen!