Proverbs 26-28, 1 Thesalonians 3
It’s about an hour until showtime. The show is the Presidential debate. Both candidates would be wise to listen to Proverbs 26:4.
Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest you be like him yourself.
How did they do? Were they in control? Did they let their emotions take over? That, according to Proverbs is the mark of a fool. Maybe they did better. Verse 5 gives us a picture of what a proper response looks like.
Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own eyes.
Do you know who did this well? Ted Lasso. Maybe you remember. In season 1, he was called out by the famous reporter, Trent Crimm. Trent attempted to goad him with talk of his inexperience, and inability to lead. He cited, factually, the losing record. Lasso knew he was right.
Most of us would respond to such an attack foolishly, allowing anger and emotion to take over. Not Lasso. He responds humbly. He acknowledges his lack of experience and highlights the real goal. “I’m going to do the best job I can, helping these young fellas be the best versions of themselves on and off the field,” he says. Lasso’s wise response defuses the situation, replacing Crimm’s criticism with curiosity.