Don't Argue With Mockers

Don't Argue With Mockers
Bible reading:  Nehemiah 2

Focus verse: "Whoever corrects a mocker invites insults; whoever rebukes the wicked incurs abuse. Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you."  Proverbs 9:7-8

I want to share a portion of a devotion from Boyd Bailey of Wisdom Hunters:

"Sometimes servants of God are mocked and ridiculed for their sincere service... The cynic does... attack people’s motives and attempt to label their enemies as rebels. Hate demonizes good people and tries to discredit anyone who disagrees with them...

How should we handle intimidation from jealous schoolmates, co-workers or neighbors? One approach is to see critics as heavenly sandpaper meant to refine our intent into integrity. Like a master wood craftsman meticulously smooths away any rough edges with their tool of the trade, so God’s Spirit uses coarse words to purify our motives. If only 1% of a skeptic’s scorn is accurate, it can scrub our soul, so it shines for our Savior Jesus. Ridicule is proof God’s work is at hand.

It is futile to attempt to reason with a mocker. Their mind is made up, unable to change unless Christ does a mental miracle... Pray for them and avoid harboring anger against them. Forgive and stay focused on Christ’s calling.

Furthermore, remain faithful where the Lord has you. Persevere in prayer at your work... Rebuild where God is working. He will bring you success. Ignore the noise of loud mockers and persuasive ridiculers. Listen only to the Lord’s quiet voice and obey by faith. " ~Boyd Bailey

If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you; if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer. Proverbs 9:12

Everyone who opposes you is not a mocker.  Sometimes they are sent by God.  Pray that God will give you courage to ignore those who mean harm and the discernment to listen to those whose intentions are honorable.   You can also examine your own motives when you oppose someone.  Have you been mocking and insulting a servant of God?  ~Page Johnson; Interlocking Ministries