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STUDY 133

Text: Proverbs 15
11 January 2004

Dear Parents,

INSIGHTS OF LIFE: SCOFFERS
Experience in life enables us to gain deep insights. One somber insight is reflected in the following text.

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

Proverbs 15:12

1. The task of correction

The task of correction is shared by many. Let us take a quick look at this vital shared task.

a) Parents

One of the duties of parents is to correct children so that they would grow up well. It is time consuming and sometimes exasperating. But it must be done.

b) Teachers

The task of correction is also shared by teachers. It is their duty to instruct. Part of that instructive procedure would be the involvement of correction. The work of correction is laborious and often thankless, but still must be done.

c) Corrective Institutions

The State also takes a keen interest in the behaviour of its citizens. It has its own way of making sure that corrective measures are taken seriously. Penal and corrective institutions are set up to ensure correction.

d) The Lord Himself

The Scripture does not hesitate to teach us that God Himself is involved in the ministry of correction. He does His work faithfully and lovingly. Sometimes His corrective work is a little painful, nevertheless, the fruit yielded is priceless (Proverbs 3:11-12; Hebrews 12:5-6)

2. Responses of the one corrected

The person involved in the work of correction must steel himself in this special understanding. He must not expect to be loved or honoured.

a) The scoffer will not love the person who attempts to correct him.

b) The scoffer will not turn to the wise for correction.

Correction hits at a tender nerve spot. That spot could be his pride, his will or even his ego. The scoffer will resent any effort aimed at correction. Nevertheless the work of correction must go on… accompanied on wings of prayer.

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie