A Chapter of Proverbs a Day…
Scripture: Proverbs 9:9
Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still;
teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning.
Observation: Those who are wise and righteous will benefit from instruction.
Application: Typically I would see this scripture, hop into mom/ helper mode and feel justified in offering a instruction in many situations. But today I see something different.
Perhaps I am being reminded that instruction is a good thing, even when it is directed towards me. I might think I’ve got a little insight in me, but by seeking out more instruction, my wisdom can only grow. When someone trusted offers advice, I should stop the defense mechanism of being offended and instead stop, listen and try to fully digest the input. And then I will grow in wisdom.
In some cases this is easy to do. But in others it will be hard. In all circumstances I need to stop, really listen and then determine my reaction.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for this gentle reminder to accept instruction… and even to seek it so that I can grow in all the right ways. Lord, please bring wise teachers my way and guide me in listening. You know what I need, Lord. Help to to see it as it comes and embrace it. Keep me from becoming defensive when I receive good, solid instruction and instead help me to dissect it and use what is for me to grow.
** I’d love to have you join me in reading a chapter of Proverbs a day in April. Feel free to jump in with today’s date!
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