Topic: The Wisdom of Listening to Instruction
March 6th, 2026
Bible Verse: Proverbs 15:5 (KJV)
A fool despiseth his father’s instruction, but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.
In our fast-paced world, where information is abundant and opinions are plentiful, it is easy to become desensitised to the value of listening. However, this verse reminds us that true wisdom lies in being receptive to guidance and correction.
Proverbs, often attributed to King Solomon, is a book rich with wisdom and practical advice for daily living. It speaks to our hearts and minds, urging us to seek understanding and to cultivate a life of virtue. The wisdom found in Proverbs is timeless, applicable to people from all walks of life and all eras.
When we talk about listening to instruction, we are not just referring to formal education or professional training. It encompasses all forms of guidance, including the advice of parents, the counsel of friends, the teachings of mentors, and the whispers of the Holy Spirit. It is about being open to learning and growing, no matter where the wisdom comes from.
A good person, as described in this verse, is one who values instruction. They understand that there is always more to learn, more to understand, and more to grow into. This attitude of humility and openness is what sets them apart. They are not too proud to admit that they do not have all the answers and are willing to listen and learn from others.
In contrast, a scoffer is someone who mocks or disregards instruction. They are closed off to feedback, resistant to change, and often dismissive of others' insights. This attitude not only hinders their personal growth but also strains their relationships with others. A scoffer's refusal to listen to rebukes can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and missed opportunities for improvement.
In our daily lives, the principle of listening to instruction can be applied in many ways. In our families, it means valuing the advice of our parents and elders, who have walked the path before us and can offer valuable insights. In our workplaces, it means being open to feedback from our supervisors and colleagues, recognising that their perspectives can help us improve and succeed.
In our spiritual lives, listening to instruction means being attentive to God's Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It involves reading and meditating on the Scriptures, seeking godly counsel, and being open to the conviction and direction of the Spirit. This kind of receptive attitude allows us to grow in our faith and to live lives that honour God.
The benefits of listening to instruction are manifold. It fosters personal growth, strengthens relationships, and enhances our ability to navigate life's challenges. When we are open to learning, we become more adaptable, more resilient, and more compassionate. We also become better equipped to share our own wisdom with others, creating a cycle of growth and mutual support.
As we reflect on Proverbs 15:5, let us consider our own attitudes towards instruction. Are we quick to listen and slow to speak? Do we value the input of others, or do we dismiss it out of hand? Are we open to correction, or do we bristle at the thought of being rebuked?
Let us strive to be the kind of people who listen to instruction, who seek wisdom, and who grow in our understanding. Let us cultivate a spirit of humility and openness, recognising that we all have something to learn and that we can all benefit from the insights of others.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the gift of wisdom and guidance. You provide through Your Word and the people You place in our lives. Help us to be receptive to instruction, to value the counsel of others, and to grow in our understanding.
Give us the humility to listen and the courage to change. Help us to avoid the attitude of a scoffer and instead to embrace the wisdom that comes from being open to feedback and correction.
We pray for our families, our workplaces, and our communities. May we be people who seek to learn and to grow, who value the insights of others, and who strive to live lives that honour You.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Author: Emmanuel Odeyemi
