Pro 26:16 | MHM | STEP | The Sluggard’s Pride and Folly This section explains that lazy people are often very proud, even though their laziness is foolish. They think they are wiser than everyone else, and this stops them from learning or improving themselves. Their pride feeds their laziness, and their laziness increases their pride. v. 16 : The sluggard thinks he is wiser than seven men who can render a reason . Wise people can explain why they do things and can give good reasons for their actions. For example, a person who works hard in faith can give a reason for the hope that is in him (1 Peter 3:15 ). But no matter how many wise people try to persuade the sluggard to be diligent, he thinks he knows better. His self-conceit is the real cause of his laziness, because he believes he does not need to learn or change. If he would only examine himself and compare his life to the truth, he would see his mistakes. However, his laziness makes him even more convinced that doing nothing is actually smart. He is proud of his laziness, but this is really something to be ashamed of. There is little hope for someone so full of pride and excuses (Proverbs 26:12 ). Hatred and Strife This next section warns against getting involved in arguments and problems that do not concern you. It is much better to be a peacemaker than to start trouble in other people’s lives.

‏ Proverbs 26:16

The Sluggard’s Pride and Folly

This section explains that lazy people are often very proud, even though their laziness is foolish. They think they are wiser than everyone else, and this stops them from learning or improving themselves. Their pride feeds their laziness, and their laziness increases their pride.

v. 16: The sluggard thinks he is wiser than seven men who can render a reason . Wise people can explain why they do things and can give good reasons for their actions. For example, a person who works hard in faith can give a reason for the hope that is in him (1 Peter 3:15 ^a). But no matter how many wise people try to persuade the sluggard to be diligent, he thinks he knows better. His self-conceit is the real cause of his laziness, because he believes he does not need to learn or change. If he would only examine himself and compare his life to the truth, he would see his mistakes. However, his laziness makes him even more convinced that doing nothing is actually smart. He is proud of his laziness, but this is really something to be ashamed of. There is little hope for someone so full of pride and excuses (Proverbs 26:12 ^b).

Hatred and Strife

This next section warns against getting involved in arguments and problems that do not concern you. It is much better to be a peacemaker than to start trouble in other people’s lives.