Embrace Correction

He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy. (Proverbs 29:1)

The wisdom of Proverbs 29:1 explains the danger of refusing to listen to the Word and God’s guidance. Such a person walks into destruction so fast that they can’t fix it.As we follow God, we will find ourselves in moments of correction. Gentle nudges from the Holy Spirit prompt us towards alignment with God's perfect will. He will lead you to connections and divine appointments, where others will give you words of advice that you’ve been praying for. These moments, though sometimes challenging, offer us opportunities to grow, transform, and become more aligned with God and His plans for our lives.

When God brings correction, He invites us into an opportunity of sacrifice and surrender that allows us to get aligned with the blessings and benefits that come from obedience to God’s will.Every faith-filled believer should embrace moments of correction and refinement from the Holy Spirit. Every time He brings correction, it is from a heart of love, designed to mold us into the image of Christ.

Cultivate a spirit of humility and gratitude by accepting and obeying reproof from God. See it as an invitation to become more like Him.

It is only in humility and obedience that we find wisdom.

It is only in correction with love that we discover growth.

As we accept His correction and align with God's will, we will discover the joy of a life fully surrendered to Him.

Practical Application

When you are being corrected by someone you respect and honor, remember the purpose of the correction. It’s not against your character; it is to help align you more perfectly with God’s purpose and plan for your life. Welcome correction and embrace it with honor.

Proverbs 1:24; 2 Timothy 3:16

Strife or Blessing

He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the Lord shall be made fat. (Proverbs 28:25)

Proverbs 28:25 shows us two contrasting hearts — one of pride and one of trust.

Our own pride often blinds us to the value of humility. Individuals who are not led by the Holy Spirit generally focus on what they deserve, what they should have, and how great they are compared to others. Because of this focus on self, strife, bitterness, anger, and hostility determine how the prideful person deals with others. Pride forces us to miss the profound blessings that accompany a life surrendered to God.

When we allow God to lead us and guide us rather than trying to direct our paths in our own strength, wisdom or understanding, we display trust in Him. Every time we step out in trust, we develop a deeper relationship with our Heavenly Father. As we entrust our hopes, dreams, and fears to Him, we discover the joy of a life anchored in Him.

Let’s not just talk about the advantages of a humble heart! Let’s develop one and keep it that way! This is an invitation to a life transformation! A humble heart doesn’t argue with God’s Word; it hears what God says and replies, “Yes, Lord!”

One of the greatest things a mature Christian can do is to cultivate humility in how we act toward others and how we receive from God.

Practical Application

Pride can hinder your ability to receive from God and stop you from growing in your relationships with others. Are you willing to give others the praise, willing to take correction and willing to trust God rather than trying to get your own praise? Trusting in the Lord is the beginning of every bit of wisdom you will ever receive in life. Watch how you interact with others this week and stop yourself if you talk or act in pride.

Proverbs 11:25; 1 Timothy 6:6

Faithful for True Blessings

A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent. (Proverbs 28:20)

In our western culture, many spend their lives chasing after some form of wealth—be it material possessions, awards, accolades, or influence. Proverbs 28:20 gives us wisdom about the search for significance, saying those who would chase after and in a rush to get rich will not be innocent. The word innocent in this verse means they will not go unpunished.

The pull of the desire for quick success and instant gratification drives most commercials and advertisements online. In fact, most media try to connect people’s desires for riches, popularity, and fame to what they are selling. Proverbs warns us of the pitfalls of the hastiness for riches. When we prioritize the amassing of money over doing righteous deeds for God’s purposes, we risk compromising our integrity. Suddenly you will say something you never would because money is involved. Suddenly, you will go over a boundary line and get close to sin because a position may become available to you. Running after riches will have negative consequences.

At the same time, Proverbs tells us the opposite of haste in pursuing wealth: faithfulness has blessed rewards! Faithfulness is being committed and steadfast to your assignment. As believers, our call to faithfulness isn’t just about our actions; it’s about having a heart for things that matter to God. Faithfulness is not a destination but rather it is a journey—a daily commitment to align our hearts with God's will and purposes. Along that journey, we will still have challenges, difficulties, and may even be tempted to take some shortcuts for success. As you persevere in being faithful, you will experience the fullness of God’s blessings!  

Practical Application

True wealth is not about the amount in a bank account. It is found in a life aligned with God’s peace and by fulfilling His purpose for your life. Do not be in such a rush to get more money that you miss the joy of living for God. A life focused on His will is going to bring prosperity as a side-effect.

Proverbs 28:22; Luke 16:10