Proverbs 26

“Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him” (v12). This is strong condemnation, because the author has just told us to avoid giving a “fool” any responsibility or honor (v3-11). In this case, a “fool” is someone who is so lazy, selfish, and impulsive that he hurts everyone around him. As bad as that is, the author says, a person filled with pride is even more dangerous.

When we refuse to acknowledge our own sins and weaknesses, we stop maturing, and we can’t receive grace.