Love the Whip
1
A wise child accepts a parent’s discipline;[a]
a mocker refuses to listen to correction.
2
Wise words will win you a good meal,
but treacherous people have an appetite for violence.
Verse 1
When we teach people about God, some people will listen. Other people refuse to listen. This is not our fault. Some people are ready to hear us, but other people are not. We should pray for them all. Sometimes, someone who refused our message will later accept it. See Mark 4:1-20.
Sometimes, many people must teach the Bible, before people believe it. Paul compared this to a plant, in the field. He wrote, ‘I sowed the seed. Another man called Apollos gave water to it. God made the seed grow. The person who sows is not important. The person who gives water is not important. Only God is important, because only God makes plants grow.’ (1 Corinthians 3:6-7)
Verse 2
As a tree has fruit, so good words have a good effect. Such words inform and help other people.
An evil man’s words have a bad effect on himself and other people.
A smart son listens to his dad's advice. But does that mean smart daughters don't have to listen? No, it doesn't. Jesus challenged the norms of a society that favored men and showed that women are just as valuable. Following Jesus' example, let me rephrase the saying: Smart children listen to their parents' advice, while fools ignore it.
The second verse is a bit poetic and might make you wonder what it really means. Here's what I think: When people speak kindly and uplifting words, they create a positive environment. But if people speak mean, foolish, or wicked words, they can expect negativity and conflict. You can change your life for the better today by being mindful of what you say.
Let me ask you: If no one has recently praised your speech, you might need to work on controlling your tongue. What can you do to improve?
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