The NIV 365 Day Devotional

In What Ways Do the Wise in Heart Accept Commands?

Proverbs uses several words to describe the various kinds of input the wise in heart accept. One such form of input is represented by the word commands. Commands include both the direct commands of Scripture and the wise counsel of parents and other teachers. Commands define right and wrong, and they direct us in the way of wisdom.

Another form of input designed to help the recipient is instruction, which includes the component of discipline. Instruction is given through explanation, repetition, testing and correction. Such instruction teaches us ways of thinking that help us to correctly apply wisdom in life. Discipline corrects us when we begin to do something wrong.

In order to obey commands and receive instruction, we need a submissive heart. Wise people have submissive hearts. They don’t always have to win an argument or get their own way. When we submissively accept the commands and instruction of others and do what is right, our patterns of thought are shaped by the process. We learn what is good and bad, valuable and worthless, wise and foolish — and we incorporate those values into our own lives. We become wise in heart.

Taken from the NIV Quest Study Bible.