June 13

He who corrects a scoffer gets dishonor for himself, and he who reproves a wicked man gets insults for himself. Do not reprove a scoffer, lest he 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 his learning. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Proverbs 9:7-10.

When will I learn these valuable lessons? Just the other day I corrected a scoffer—one who held contempt for the people of God. It only made things worse. There is a tension between us now, and I do not know how to remove it. It does no good sometimes to be right. It is more important to be humble before the Lord and to see opportunities for reaching others as a servant, not as their judge.

I know wise men who hunger for constructive criticism. Oh that I could learn more of this approach to wisdom. We all need to be teachable, and I thank those close to me who have offered sound advice at the right time and place. May I be able to do likewise with those around me.

Lord, give me the discernment to appraise others that I encounter today. May I see their hurting as well as their joy. May I know when to keep silent as well as when to speak softly with wise instruction. If all this is to be done it is because I will wait for Your wisdom before I speak. Thank You, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
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