May 25, 2023
Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish. Proverbs 12:1
In this proverb we have two contrasting individuals; one who is ready to learn and another who refuses instruction. Let’s learn from both.
Those ready to learn are open to instruction. They listen to those that are wiser, learn from the experiences of others, and are not angered when rebuked or reproved. They want knowledge.
Knowledge comes by instruction, which includes, but is not limited to, direction, correction, warnings, and discipline. To be instructed one must cast off pride and humble the heart. Humility admits ignorance and accepts information. If you humble yourself before God, you will get a true estimate of yourself. Your heart can be deceiving and your ways, which seem right, might be wrong (Jeremiah 17:9; Proverbs 14:12). The LORD, through His Word, will guide you correctly if you’re ready to learn.
You might also learn from others, through their words and by their conduct. Be grateful for those that care enough to offer direction when you’re going the wrong way. Circumstances even prove to be good teachers. Much can be gained through failure, disappointments, and humiliation, as well as in success and promotion. Be willing to learn. The more you love instruction, the more knowledge you will have.
Let’s consider those that refuse to be instructed. They hate reproof and prove to be brutish; irrational and senseless. They would rather be wrong than corrected, so they persist in their ignorant ways, not wiser or better for what others, God included, might say or show them. Why is this? Perhaps they love their errant ways, maybe they’re too proud to listen, or they hear but are too complacent to care or change. Whatever the reason, they choose ignorance over instruction.
Consider the warning found in this proverb. If you believe you’re always right, you’ll oppose anyone that thinks differently than you do and have an attitude of refusal, even against God. One who never admits to being wrong is bound to decline, both spiritually and morally. The person that is willing to be instructed and apply that knowledge will gain wisdom and blessings from God.
Your direction each day depends upon whether you are ready, or are refusing, to learn. Which is it?