We should be humble enough to receive correction daily.
One of the wise directives found in the book of Proverbs states, “Listen to counsel and accept discipline, That you may be wise the rest of your days.” (v.20) This proverb calls God’s people to humbly seek and embrace correction, recognizing that acknowledging our limitations is the first step toward true wisdom. King Solomon, who reigned from about 971 to 931 BC, is traditionally credited with gathering these teachings; his wisdom is drawn from a lifetime of leadership and reflection, which includes seeing how foolish pride and refusal to learn from others lead to long-term harm (Proverbs 1:7). Solomon’s perspective on receiving counsel involves both self-awareness and reverence for God.
When the proverb says, “Listen to counsel and accept discipline” (v.20), it emphasizes not only hearing advice, but also yielding our hearts to it. Accepting discipline can be a challenging process because it involves humbly admitting failures or inadequacies. This willingness to be corrected serves as a catalyst for spiritual growth, refining our character as we seek to live out God’s truth in daily life (Hebrews 12:9-11). Furthermore, adopting this mindset mirrors Jesus’ teachings on humility and readiness to learn from others, demonstrated by His interactions with disciples and those who sought His wisdom (Matthew 7:24-27).
The promise, “That you may be wise the rest of your days” (v.20), assures that those who remain teachable will gain wisdom for a lifetime. This is not a fleeting or momentary insight, but a long-term, stable perspective that shapes decisions, relationships, and attitudes. Fullness of wisdom requires persistent learning, openness to legitimate critique, and the courage to accept discipline. As we continue in this lifelong process, God’s guidance becomes clearer, maturing us into more faithful stewards of His truth (1 Timothy 4:8).
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Proverbs 19:20 meaning
One of the wise directives found in the book of Proverbs states, “Listen to counsel and accept discipline, That you may be wise the rest of your days.” (v.20) This proverb calls God’s people to humbly seek and embrace correction, recognizing that acknowledging our limitations is the first step toward true wisdom. King Solomon, who reigned from about 971 to 931 BC, is traditionally credited with gathering these teachings; his wisdom is drawn from a lifetime of leadership and reflection, which includes seeing how foolish pride and refusal to learn from others lead to long-term harm (Proverbs 1:7). Solomon’s perspective on receiving counsel involves both self-awareness and reverence for God.
When the proverb says, “Listen to counsel and accept discipline” (v.20), it emphasizes not only hearing advice, but also yielding our hearts to it. Accepting discipline can be a challenging process because it involves humbly admitting failures or inadequacies. This willingness to be corrected serves as a catalyst for spiritual growth, refining our character as we seek to live out God’s truth in daily life (Hebrews 12:9-11). Furthermore, adopting this mindset mirrors Jesus’ teachings on humility and readiness to learn from others, demonstrated by His interactions with disciples and those who sought His wisdom (Matthew 7:24-27).
The promise, “That you may be wise the rest of your days” (v.20), assures that those who remain teachable will gain wisdom for a lifetime. This is not a fleeting or momentary insight, but a long-term, stable perspective that shapes decisions, relationships, and attitudes. Fullness of wisdom requires persistent learning, openness to legitimate critique, and the courage to accept discipline. As we continue in this lifelong process, God’s guidance becomes clearer, maturing us into more faithful stewards of His truth (1 Timothy 4:8).