July 9, 2019
Proverbs 9:8 –10 – Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man and he will still be wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.
Observation-
Proverbs 9 shows us there are two paths we can choose to follow, either wisdom or folly. There is a contrast in how a foolish person acts compared to a wise person. Someone who scoffs is too proud to receive correction and will despise you for your reproof. Whereas a person with wisdom welcomes instruction and grows in learning. Having a reverence and understanding of who God is and seeking Him leads to a path of wisdom.
Application –
The two paths of wisdom and folly are both roads I can travel but end at dramatically different destinations. The way of folly (world) is simple and may have temporary gain but leads to death. I need to recognize who God is what He has done for me and seek Him so I can grow in knowledge and understanding of His ways. Ways I can grow in understanding of God are by spending time in His word and in prayer. I must be humble, willing to learn and accept instruction as I grow in my walk with Christ.
Prayer –
Father,
Thank you for your love, grace and mercy. Let the Spirit keep me humble to follow you and grow in my understanding of you. May I love you, love others and be a reflection for others to see you through me.