The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise.
Proverbs gives prominent practical instruction for everyday life on submitting to reproof, and this verse belongs to that teaching. The ear that hears life-giving correction that exposes error and leads to life remains and belongs among the wise. That hearing is listening to correction that reveals error and to correction that leads to life.
Those who listen to such correction gain understanding and are honored. Rejecting such correction despises wisdom. Refusing instruction shows contempt for one's own soul. Refusing or hating reproof leads to error and death.
The benefit of reproof depends less on how it is delivered than on how it is received. One who is at fault should not take offense at its manner or dwell on the giver's motive, but should acknowledge the fault and its justice, resist resentment, and treat the fault as the enemy so that offense does not rob the correction of its benefit. Willing acceptance of reproof brings the heart into harmony with righteousness. Receiving reproof is a mark of Christian character; though it may hurt, it removes sin and protects the character from ruin. A heart open to the Spirit's correction is blessed, and a faithful friend may give needed reproof when the heart is not receptive.
Proverbs gives prominent practical instruction for everyday life on submitting to reproof, and this verse belongs to that teaching. The ear that hears life-giving correction that exposes error and leads to life remains and belongs among the wise. That hearing is listening to correction that reveals error and to correction that leads to life.
Those who listen to such correction gain understanding and are honored. Rejecting such correction despises wisdom. Refusing instruction shows contempt for one's own soul. Refusing or hating reproof leads to error and death.
The benefit of reproof depends less on how it is delivered than on how it is received. One who is at fault should not take offense at its manner or dwell on the giver's motive, but should acknowledge the fault and its justice, resist resentment, and treat the fault as the enemy so that offense does not rob the correction of its benefit. Willing acceptance of reproof brings the heart into harmony with righteousness. Receiving reproof is a mark of Christian character; though it may hurt, it removes sin and protects the character from ruin. A heart open to the Spirit's correction is blessed, and a faithful friend may give needed reproof when the heart is not receptive.