August 19, 2021 -- Proverbs 9:7-10 -- Hmm, I stand corrected

Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse,
and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury.
8 Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you;
reprove a wise man, and he will love you.
9 Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser;
teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.
10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,
and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.
Proverbs 9:7- 10 English Standard Version

If you reason with an arrogant cynic, you’ll get slapped in the face;
confront bad behavior and get a kick in the shins.
So don’t waste your time on a scoffer;
all you’ll get for your pains is abuse.
But if you correct those who care about life,
that’s different—they’ll love you for it!
Save your breath for the wise—they’ll be wiser for it;
tell good people what you know—they’ll profit from it.
Skilled living gets its start in the Fear-of-God,
insight into life from knowing a Holy God.
Proverbs 9:7-10 The Message

It is easy to apply these verses to other people. Of course, I think my opinion is right (usually, often, okay a lot of the time—though probably far less often than I’d like to admit). However, it is critical for us to note, when we speak with someone, showing them their faults or inquiring about their actions—the real possibility is that you will get a rebuke in return. And likely that rebuke or correction or criticism is warranted. How will you handle this?

Jesus Christ alone is the Perfect One. He is the One Who lived a Holy Life, walking in the Fear of the LORD in such a way that the glory of God was always evident in His life. When we receive instruction, rebuke, or criticism, ask yourself, what is true in this—no matter how it is delivered to you—examine your words, thoughts and actions in humility before Christ your King.

As Canada is racing through the campaignings of an election that was snapped into action just a few days ago, no doubt, there will be much opportunity for criticism, rebuke, correction and teaching. I wonder, how will we, as Christians, honorably contribute to these discussions? We have the sure confidence Christ is the Ruler above all, here and now, and into eternity.

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable in Your sight,
O LORD, my Rock and Redeemer.” Amen
Psalm 19:14 ESV

https://youtu.be/hiW3Fi2PJrY