The reproofs of life are those which are drawn from the life-giving word, urged with affectionate warmth upon the conscience, and tending to the spiritual and eternal life of those who receive them; they that with attentive ear regard them, are in the way to be numbered with the wise.
32. He that refuseh instruction, despiseh his own soul: but he that heareth reproof, § geteth understanding.
He that refuseh instruction, or correction, whether from God, or those let in authority over him, dispiseh his own soul; shows his ignorance of the value of it, and for the indulgences of the perishing flesh, willfully destroy his spirit, which is immortal: but he that heareth reproof, and submits to it, geteth understanding, and grows wise and better thereby.
33. ' The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and ' before honour is humility.