Proverbs 9:8

“Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you.”

How often do we experience being corrected or rebuked by someone we know? Maybe from a co-worker, family member, church member, a friend, or from our spouses? Ano ang madalas nating tugon everytime na tayo’y na-cocorrect nila?

Napaka ganda talaga ng kawikaan na ito to teach us a very important thing about our character when we are being rebuked, assuming na they are correct, at tayo naman ang may pagkakamali.

Likewise, kapag tayo naman ang nag-correct sa pagkakamali ng iba, we will know what to expect from them according to this proverb.

There are two kinds of person here and two different responses that will reveal their character when they are reproved.

Sabi dito, “Do not reprove a scoffer.” “Scoffer” means “foolish”, or “hangal”.

But why?

Dahil when you correct them, the automatic response is “hate” to you. They do not accept correction because they believe they are always right and proud and don’t need your wise counsel.

What is your response when someone corrects you? Do you feel hated as well sa pag-tatama mo ng mali ng iba?

The second person is described as a “wise man.” Matalinong tao ang tumatanggap ng correction. In fact, sabi dito, “he will love you” for pointing out his mistakes and even sins. A wise man values his life, is humble, and cares for the truth that can make his life better and righteous.

When was the last time you gave thanks to the person who corrected you? “Uy, salamat for telling me yung mistakes ko kanina ah, I’ll be careful next time.” These words are a gesture of wisdom and humility to learn from our mistakes observed by others.

The question is, are you a wise man who admits and accepts correction from others?

Or are you the foolish man who rejects correction from others and hates them for telling you the truth?

Nawa saliksikin natin ang ating mga puso at kilos at piliin na maging wise man for the glory of God.