Key Verse Spotlight
Proverbs 20:3 - Meaning and Application
Understand how this verse speaks to what you're facing and how to apply it today
Translation: King James Version
It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.
Proverbs 20:3
Verse in Context
Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:
1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.
3 It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.
5 Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.
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This verse corrects a common mistake people make about conflict. Many think it is wise to jump into arguments, but it is really great foolishness. A person may think he is very wise if he is quick to take offense, rigid about every point of honor and justice, and unwilling to give up even the smallest thing. He may also think it is his place to set the rules for everyone else. But the one who keeps meddling in quarrels is a fool, and he only brings needless trouble on himself.
People also think that, once they are in a fight, it would be shameful to back down and lay down the weapon. In truth, it is honorable for a man to stop arguing. It is honorable to withdraw a case, drop a dispute, forgive an insult, and make peace with those he has been at odds with. A wise and strong person shows self-control by ceasing from strife, giving way, and stepping back from even rightful claims for the sake of peace, as Abraham did, the better man in that conflict (Genesis 13:8).
From This Chapter
Proverbs 20:1
"Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise."
Proverbs 20:2
"The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul."
Proverbs 20:4
"The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing."
Proverbs 20:5
"Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out."
Proverbs 20:6
"Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?"
Proverbs 20:7
"The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him."
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