NearnessNäide

Are you perfect? Have you never made a mistake? Have you always said and done the right thing? Of course not. Only a fool would believe that! But sometimes we do believe that. We love to think that we are right. Nobody likes to admit when they are wrong.

In today’s proverb, we read about the need to listen to life-giving reproof. Being open to being corrected when we’re wrong helps us to learn and become wiser. It requires humility to accept when we’re wrong and in need of instruction.

But these verses in Proverbs provide more than just sound advice. It’s even confronting in parts: “Whoever ignores instruction despises himself” (Proverbs 15:32, ESV). To refuse to learn or heed life-giving instruction is actually destructive to our being.

The picture that these verses paint is that of repentance. Repentance is the recognition that we are sinful—we are wrong—and turning towards Jesus and His right way. It requires humility and that can be hard. But ultimately, following Jesus and His way leads to true life. That’s real wisdom. When we heed the Lord’s instruction, fearing Him and turning to Him in repentance, we are always met with His grace, glory, and the promise of new life.

Today, ponder this: Is there any aspect of your life where you need to turn back towards Jesus in repentance? Pray to Him now, with the confidence that He is ready to receive you with grace and forgiveness.