Proverbs 11:12 (NKJV) — 12 He who is devoid of wisdom despises his neighbor, But a man of understanding holds his peace.

Lack of wisdom. When people despise their neighbors, it is a sign that they lack wisdom. A central biblical principle is that people are to be concerned about the welfare of their neighbors. Not only does this attitude promote strong and secure neighborhoods, but it also provides an opportunity for Christian witness. Those who despise and mistreat their neighbors lay the groundwork for their own destruction.

On the other hand, if people know how to abstain from contention or retaliation, even in the face of imagined or real wrongs, it is a sign that they have understanding. One of the greatest evidences of genuine strength of character is the ability to refrain from saying damaging things that could be said.

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