Readings in Proverbs
Proverbs – Day 14
Day 14: Listening – part 2 Who we listen to reveals a lot about who we are: evil listens to evil (Prov. 17:4) and a fool is unchanged by discipline, […]
Day 14: Listening – part 2
Who we listen to reveals a lot about who we are: evil listens to evil (Prov. 17:4) and a fool is unchanged by discipline, but those with understanding will heed a rebuke (Prov. 17:10). To listen requires humility and a willingness to admit that God’s ways are right and good.
A fool freely expresses his opinion on issues, even when he is ignorant (Prov. 18:2). Likewise, a foolish person casts judgment before listening (Prov. 18:13). The Lord Jesus warned us against hypercritical or wrong-headed judging: “Judge not, that you be not judged (Matt. 7:1).” May this make us cautious to express our opinions. May the Lord give us a teachable spirit, willing to learn and listen to His Word and the wise rebuke of others.
An evildoer listens to wicked lips, and a liar gives ear to a mischievous tongue.
– Prov. 17:4
A rebuke goes deeper into a man of understanding than a hundred blows into a fool.
– Prov. 17:10
Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment.
– Prov. 18:1
A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.
– Prov. 18:2
If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.
– Prov. 18:13
An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.
– Prov. 18:15
Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.
– Prov. 19:20
Cease to hear instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.
– Prov. 19:27
The hearing ear and the seeing eye, the Lord has made them both.
– Prov.20:12
Plans are established by counsel; by wise guidance wage war.
– Prov. 20:18
Father God, please give us an attitude that is open and ready to listen, even to rebuke. The fool closes his ears, but the wise listen and are changed.
Lord, You discipline those that You love, for their good. We pray that the peaceful fruit of righteousness that comes from listening to Your rebuke would be seen and shown in our lives.
In Christ’s Name we pray, Amen.
– Graham Barnes
