JUN 3

Proverbs 15:32
Memorise 2 Timothy 3:16
“… he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured”

One of the manifestations of pride (which we considered yesterday) is the rejection of reproof. Because of his pride, a person would refuse to listen to criticism and rebuke. He is too stubborn and full of self that he does not want to admit that he is wrong, or that he needs to be reproved by others.

Is that the attitude that one who is striving to lead a reformed life ought to have? We read in Proverbs that “He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul”. The meaning here is that the instruction pertains to spiritual matters. The word “despiseth” here is a very strong word that means to spurn, loathe or abhor. To a person who refuses to heed instruction, it is as if he utterly loathes his own soul and has no care or concern whatsoever for its state. That is why he would refuse to pay attention to instruction regarding things of God and things of eternity, to the detriment of his own soul. On the other hand, “he that heareth reproof getteth understanding”. A person who receives words of rebuke, not just with his ears but with true understanding and acceptance, will get understanding. He will gain spiritual enlightenment and instruction, and thereby grow and mature in his faith.

What is the best source of reproof? None other than the Word of God. We read in today’s second reading that Scripture is profitable for, amongst other things, reproof. We need the Word of God to point out the sins in our lives and to show us the errors of our ways. Yet so often we simply turn a blind eye and a deaf ear to the words of Scripture, being too stubborn and too proud to admit our faults and confess our sins before God.

Dear teen, are you a teachable Christian, or do you often reject reproof? When the Word of God reveals a certain sin in your life, are you quick to repent, or do you stubbornly ignore the warning? Or when a wellmeaning brother or sister rebukes you, do you angrily brush it aside? If the preaching from a particular sermon convicts your heart of some truth of God’s Word, what is your response? Dear teen, may you earnestly heed reproof, that you may get understanding.

Thought: Am I stubborn or am I teachable?

Prayer: Teach me Thy way, O Lord, teach me Thy way!