Instruction is a command or order with directions. Have you ever known people who cannot take instruction? Some people have to attend the “school of hard knocks.” It seems that they always have to learn the hard way. Proverbs 13:13 explains, “He who scorns instruction will pay for it.” However, Proverbs 16:20 promises, “He who gives heed to instruction will prosper.” Proverbs 4:13 exhorts, “Hold on to instruction and do not let it go.”
The reality is that when we receive instruction we are actually building a platform on a good foundation that has already been laid for us. Someone said, “Why re-invent the wheel if you don’t have to?” Why not learn from someone else’s experience?
Proverbs 19:20
“Hear counsel, receive instruction, and accept correction that you may be wise in the time to come.”
Practical Application and Assignments:
Instruction is given for the purpose of information, direction, training, and correction. A “nobody is going to tell me what to do” attitude will only get you into trouble. Your willingness to receive instruction is a prediction of your future. The instruction you follow will determine where you are going.
- Hear counsel. “You shall guide me with Your counsel and afterward receive me to honor and glory.” Psalms 73:24 (AMP)
- Receive instruction. “Apply your mind to instruction and correction, and your ears to words of knowledge.” Proverbs 23:12 (AMP)
- Accept correction. “To you it was shown, that you might realize and have personal knowledge that the Lord is God: there is no other besides Him. Out of Heaven He made you hear His voice that He might correct, discipline and admonish you.” Deuteronomy 4:35,36
- Heed instruction. “It is a school of hard knocks for those who leave God’s path, a dead-end street for those who hate God’s rules.” Proverbs 15:10 (MSG)
“Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.” Proverbs 8:33
