What is the meaning of Proverbs 15:31? He who listens - Listening is an act of humility, choosing to place another voice above our own. • Proverbs 12:15 says, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to counsel.” • James 1:19 urges, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger,” showing that attentive hearing is the first step toward godly character. - Scripture paints listening not as passive but as responsive—heeding what is heard. When Samuel said, “Speak, for Your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10), he modeled the heart this proverb commends. to life-giving reproof - “Reproof” is loving correction aimed at restoration, never condemnation. • Proverbs 6:23 calls such correction “the way to life,” linking reproof directly to vitality. • Revelation 3:19: “Those I love, I rebuke and discipline.” God’s rebuke is evidence of His love, offering life, not harm. - Accepting reproof means letting truth expose error, allowing Christ’s light to heal (John 3:20-21). will dwell - “Dwell” speaks of settled residence, not a passing visit. • Psalm 91:1: “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.” The promise is ongoing protection and stability. • John 15:4: “Remain in Me, and I will remain in you.” Continual abiding yields continual fruit. - Receiving correction roots us securely in God’s wisdom, giving permanence where rebellion would bring exile. among the wise - God places the teachable into a community shaped by His truth. • Proverbs 13:20: “He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” Association influences destination. • Acts 2:42 shows early believers “devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching,” illustrating how shared wisdom strengthens the whole body. - Those who heed reproof not only become wise themselves but enrich the fellowship of others, forming a circle of mutual sharpening (Proverbs 27:17). summary Listening with humility to life-giving correction anchors us in God’s protective, nourishing wisdom. Such responsiveness moves us from isolated self-reliance into the secure, fruitful company of the wise, where we continually grow and help others grow in the fear of the Lord. |
    |