Day 9

(Proverbs 9)

You know that person that you had to approach because they were going down a road that you knew would lead to destruction? So, you prayed and prayed and waited for the right opportunity to talk with them about it.  You were not harsh, angry or condemning when you spoke with them but in the end they took it that way. You know this because you soon found out they were saying not so kind things behind your back about you?  Representing you in the wrong way to others around you?  You know that person?

They are a scoffer… mark it down and don’t mess with them again.

Why?

Because they will abuse you and cause you injury.  Their ways are wicked and they do not want to do anything about it but they don’t mind making you look bad (like someone you are not) to those around you. They do not “even think twice” about lyng to people about you.

They are a scoffer… mark it down, they are dangerous… Do not mess with them again.

“Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse, and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury.” (Proverbs 9:7)

Now this is not just a suggestion, it is  a command of scripture for the next verse says…

“Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you…” (Proverbs 9:8)

Do not – in the bible is always a command. So, to reprove someone you know to be a scoffer is wrong.  So, don’t do it… no matter how temping it may be to do so.

Why?

see above

and then add…

they will hate you.

Hate is a deep seated emotional response and here means rejection of a person or thing. When you reprove someone who is a scoffer they will reject you and try to get others to do the same.

So, watch out for those people who practice criticism of others.

Watch out for those who seem to always have issues with people.

They are scoffers… do not reprove them… do not give them wisdom… and keep your distance from them… as much as you can.

(BTW –  We need to make sure this does not describe us. Ask yourself this question… Am I a Scoffer?)

On a more positive note…

“…reprove a wise man, and he will love you.” Proverbs 9:8

There are people who accept what you have to say to them, they take it to heart, change and do not go out from your conversation and smear your name.  Instead they respect and hold you with honor. Because they realize you love them, care for them and honor them enough to have the tough conversations.

Yes they know you have judged something they are doing in their life. But they know you didn’t condemn them.  They know you have rightly judged something they are doing that needed to be corrected, and they are more than willing to make the changes that need to be made.

They want to make those changes…

because they are pursuing wisdom

and love it when they receive some.

What did you see in the passage today?  What verse stood out to you?