Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured (Proverbs 13:18).
The Book of Proverbs is an important Book of the Bible. It’s a Book of wisdom which every smart Christian should study meticulously. It shows us the importance of God’s instructions and their applications to our lives. Not everybody knows wisdom and instruction. But Proverbs 1:2 tells us to “…know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding.” This is referring to the Word of God.
The Word of God is wisdom and instruction, and there’s a cost for not attending to instructions. Proverbs 4:13 refers to God’s instructions as life. Our theme verse says poverty and shame shall be to him that refuses instruction.
The person doesn’t need to have been poor; no matter how rich he may be at the moment, if he wouldn’t heed instruction— God’s Word—the Bible says poverty shall be his lot. The fifteenth chapter further buttresses this clear warning; it says, “He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding” (Proverbs 15:32).
The Word of God is God’s instruction manual for an extraordinary life of glory, dominion and victory. Therefore, consciously practice fellowship with the Holy Spirit and the Word. That’s where you receive His instructions and guidance that put you over circumstances and the adversities of life.
Live out the Word every day. That’s exactly what James tells us when he says, “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves” (James 1:22). This is what we do in the New Testament: we’re the Word in manifestation. Through us, the Word of God is lived beyond the written pages.
We’re the Word of God in action today. So, in your personal life, study the Word; “eat” and digest the Word. As you do, following His instructions becomes your way of life, and His instructions make great. Hallelujah!
PRAYER / CONFESSION
Dear Father, thank you for the gift and blessing of your Word—the transformation that following your plans, your instructions, will and purpose, has brought to my life! I’m sensitive to your guidance; therefore, I lead a beautiful and exceptional life, gloriously fulfilling your calling and destiny for me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
