The Scoffer and the Wise Person
Dear Lord, I pray for wisdom for those who will reprove a wise person. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The synonyms for the word “reprove” include rebuke, scold, and reprimand.
The synonyms for the word “scoff” include jeer, jibe, sneer, poke, and insult.
Proverbs 9:7-12 (ESV) shows the difference between a scoffer and a wise person.
“Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse,
and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury.
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 be still 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.
For by me your days will be multiplied,
and years will be added to your life.
If you are wise, you are wise for yourself;
if you scoff, you alone will bear it.”
Which are you? Do you ever fall into the category of a scoffer? Or, are you willing to accept rebuke and criticism and change for the better?
Tell me what you think in the comments below.
