A PATH TO HONOR
PROVERBS 13:18
PROVERBS 13:18 NKJV
18 Poverty and shame will come to him who disdains correction,
But he who regards a rebuke will be honored.
OBSERVATION:
Honor is a really great thing. Especially when the honor comes from God.
In today's verse, there is a clear path revealed that leads to honor. The person who is willing to accept correction will be honored. Correction is actually a polished version of the word in my New King James bible that says rebuke. Other translations use the word reproof.
Reproof, in the dictionary, is an act or expression of criticism and censure, to call on the carpet, take to task or reprimand. Excited yet?
However, we can't lose sight of the end result. When we take seriously a reprimand and refuse to reject being called on the carpet, we will be honored.
The first part of this proverb says that if we ignore or disdain correction, it's a path to poverty and shame.
We can see this principle at work all around us. We all know people who would not receive correction and were fired. Or they hurt a relationship to the point where repair was unobtainable.
God's word provides correction. It can come gently but at other times it can really sting. But when God corrects us through His word or by His Holy Spirit, it is to help us reach a place of honor. And to help us avoid the path that leads to poverty and shame.
We can't narrowly define poverty as financial only. There are countless people with wealth in their accounts and poverty in their souls.
The good news is that if you are on the wrong path, you can change. It takes humility to receive reproof, rebuke, or correction. But the humble get grace and honor.
APPLICATION:
Can you think of a time when you were corrected by God's word or a message? Maybe the correction came through a trusted friend or a loved one. How did you respond? Notice I did not ask how did you feel. Feelings are not the primary factor in responding to rebukes.
Just remember, a right response, despite feelings, will put you on the path to honor, God's honor.
PRAYER:
I am open to Your correction Lord. Help me to respond the right way.