In the book of Proverbs Solomon said, “the ear that hears the reproof of life abides among the wise”, and in chapter fifteen and verse thirty-two of Proverbs Solomon shared about, “he that refuses instruction” where we read,
He that refuses instruction despises his own soul: but he that hears reproof gets understanding.
The verse begins, “He that refuses instruction despises his own soul:” Solomon began with the words, “he that refuses instruction” or “the person whether male or female who ignores, lets alone and neglects correction, discipline, rebuke and doctrine” “despises his own soul” which means “rejects, abhors and contemns the person's own personal heart, mind, will, desires, living being, conscience and seat of emotions and affections”. Solomon shared how the person who ignores and neglects doctrine and correction abhors their own heart, mind and will.
The verse goes on to say, “but he that hears reproof gets understanding.” Solomon continued with the words, “but he that hears reproof” or “however, notwithstanding, nonetheless and moreover the person who listens to, obeys, pays attention and yields to correction, chiding, rebuke and chastisement” “gets understanding” which means “acquires, obtains and possesses and gains inclination, resolution, determination, knowledge, reflection and memory”. Solomon said the person who listens and hearkens to correction and rebuke gains knowledge, inclination and resolution.
When we meditate upon the words in this verse, we learn through Solomon how there is a contrast between the person who ignores and rejects correction and the person who listens to it. Those who reject good counsel abhor themselves, and people who listen and obey correction gain knowledge and reflection. God wants the best for us, and He sent His Son Jesus into the world to die on the cross for our sins, so we can live with Him forever. When we put our faith and trust in Him as our personal “Savior and Lord”, He will forgive our sins, grant us everlasting life and teach us to know the value of receiving “instruction” and hearing “reproof” for all the days of our lives.
Next time Solomon says, “the fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.
Until tomorrow…there is more…
See more devotionals on the website "thewordfortodaywithray.com" or look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” and the new poetry book "Random Mushrooms Volumes I and II" and the new novel "Elizabeth County" in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore. All references are from "Strongs Concordance".
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