Did you know??? Thomas Edison was nearly deaf after he was infected with scarlet fever, ear infections, but primarily a train accident that rendered him practically deaf. He said often that this limitation was the one influence that resulted in him inventing and holding more than 1,000 patents.
Our meditation today is found in Prov. 17:10 “A single (word of) rebuke does more for a person of understanding (wisdom) than a hundred lashes on the back of a fool.”
The perfect example of this passage is seen when David was confronted by Nathan the priest for his sin with Bathsheba & murder of her husband Uriah. He immediately repented 2 Sam. 12:13 “I have sinned against the Lord”.
However, Pharaoh was faced with a whole series of plagues and he still refused to humble himself to God.
Our reaction to a word of rebuke is evidence of our wisdom. In other words, How we respond to correction is an open testimony to our mental, and emotional state.
Thomas Edison took his physical handicap (deafness) and responded by taking his limitation and turning his efforts of being unable to easily communicate, to provide inventions that helped provide assistance for the needs of others In his day and even many today.
So Go With God and take the warnings of our loving Father to guide us away from pride, anger, and rebellion towards humility, submission, and obedience. As Edison brought benefit to others through his limits, by heeding God’s guidelines we will in turn bring blessings to others as we respond submissively to His instruction.
Notice the result of David’s humility & repentance ultimately resulted in the birth of Solomon. The result of Pharaoh‘s pride was a loss of his heir to the throne, his army, and ultimately defeat of his nation.
We can respond either way, and choose blessings or cursings.