Definition: Poverty and shame [shall be to] him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Proverbs 13:18. It’s a really insightful message about how we can achieve true happiness and respect. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, it means that not taking the time to learn from your mistakes or to correct them will lead you down a bad path, but doing so – receiving reproof (correction) – will actually lead you to be honored. Let’s unpack it further: “Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction…” This is saying that if you don't learn from your mistakes or seek help when things go wrong, you'll end up feeling poor (financially) and embarrassed. Think of it like being stuck in a dark place – it’s uncomfortable and doesn’t bring you joy. "...but he that regardeth reproof shall be honored." This is the key part! “Regardeth reproof” means to seek correction, to ask for help, and to learn from what happened. It's about actively taking responsibility for your actions and understanding why they weren’t good. When you take the time to learn from your mistakes, you get honor – meaning respect and recognition of your worthiness. Think of it like this: Imagine you accidentally break something valuable. Instead of just getting angry and blaming someone else, you would seek help to fix it. That act of seeking help and learning from the mistake is what leads to being honored (respected). In a nutshell, Proverbs 13:18 encourages us to be proactive in improving ourselves by taking responsibility for our actions and learning from our mistakes – this is the path to personal growth and respect. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what this verse might mean in a specific context (like relationships or career)?