Day 9 – The Blessing of Instruction
Proverbs 9:9 (NIV) “Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.”
Devotional Reflection: Correction doesn’t crush the wise it grows them. In Proverbs 9, we’re given a clear contrast between the wise and the foolish: the wise welcome instruction, the foolish reject it. The difference isn’t just in knowledge, but in attitude. A teachable spirit is a mark of maturity, not weakness.
Naaman, a commander of the Syrian army, was powerful, respected, and accomplished but also prideful. When Elisha told him to dip in the Jordan River to be healed of leprosy, he was offended. The instruction felt beneath him too simple, too undignified. But it was only when Naaman humbled himself and followed the prophet’s word that healing came (2 Kings 5).
Naaman didn’t need a new miracle he needed a new mindset.
Some breakthroughs only come when you’re willing to be corrected. Wisdom doesn’t always show up as inspiration. Sometimes, she comes dressed in rebuke. But if you listen, lean in, and obey you become stronger, deeper, and more aligned with God’s heart.
God doesn’t correct to humiliate you He corrects to develop you. Growth requires guidance. And the ones who keep growing are the ones who keep learning.
Personal Application:
How do I usually respond to correction?
Do I seek out godly instruction or avoid it?
What mindset is God trying to shift in me right now?
Prayer: Father, make me teachable. Break the pride that resists instruction and build in me a spirit that welcomes growth. Whether You speak through Your Word, a mentor, or conviction I want to listen and change. Don’t let my desire to be right outweigh my desire to be wise. I surrender to the path of growth. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Rooted Truth: “Some breakthroughs come dressed as correction. Pride resists what wisdom receives.”