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Parenting by the Book

Proverbs   Study
Study 126

STUDY 126

Text: Proverbs 15
23 November 2003

Dear Parents,

CORRECTION AT DIFFERENT LEVELS
Sometimes we confine the issue of “correction” to a parent-child relationship. In actual fact, “correction” is practised on a far wider scale. Let us ponder the following text before we take up this discussion further.

A scoffer does not love one who corrects him,
Nor will he go to the wise.

Proverbs 15:12

This text also mentioned the word “correction”. In what context may this word be applied? Let us consider the following people who are in the position to do the work of correction.

1. Teachers/Pastors

This category comes to mind readily. They have a moral obligation to guide and teach. That work often involves a word of rebuke or two at times.

2. Older Family Members

Older members in the family, like uncles and aunties function almost like parents. They have a natural sense of concern for the younger generation and out of concern when they see poor behaviour, they may attempt to correct.

3. Good Friends

Good and mature friends are difficult to come by. True friends are those who are not afraid to address an issue that they consider problematic.

The above list is certainly not an exhaustive one! The list could be expanded to include other people. However, the point is already made. Correction can and does place at different levels!

THE PROBLEM MAY LIE WITH THE PERSON BEING CORRECTED
The text that we have read raises an important point. The person who is receiving correction may not like it at all.

1. He certainly will not love the one correcting him. It is quite possible for him to break off all relationships, because he feels offended at being corrected.

2. He will also not seek the wise (who would probably attempt to correct him too).

The scoffer rejects all attempts to correct him. He is happy where he is. He just does not appreciate any corrective attempts!

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie

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