SOAP Journal 03-13-2008 (Prov 13:13-14 and 13:18)

Scripture:

Prov 13:13-14 The one who despises instruction will pay the penalty, but whoever esteems instruction will be rewarded. Instruction from the wise is like a life-giving fountain, to turn a person from deadly snares.

Prov 13:18 The one who neglects discipline ends up in poverty and shame, but the one who accepts reproof is honored.

Observation:

There's a hatred of instruction that this passages warns about. The cost of not "esteeming" and (therefore) listening is devastating and the reward for listening is abundant, saving and elevating to that listener. But the instruction must come from the "wise" or else it is proverbial fool instructing proverbial fool.

Application:

The stark contrast between listening and not shows both the peril that we dwell in and the enormous treasure that awaits us when we say "yes" to just opening our hearts to what God has to say. It is as Amy Grant sang

And just by listening you have made a decision; 'Cause the voice you hear is gonna win the fight.

I have personally despised the voice, the attitude or just the person who God uses to bring instruction. There is balance and accuracy that needs to be achieved, and it can be SO MUCH work to filter out the bad stuff, but turning off the hunger to hear life-giving instruction, admonishing and rebuke is a deadly decision.

Prayer:

Father, help me discern where I have closed my heart to Your instruction, where I've openly rebelled and not been obedient and show me
the consequences I have received. Help me repent and listen with a keen ear. In Jesus' Name.