Proverbs 9:7-10 " Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse. Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you. Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."
Unfortunately I have read this verse countless times and failed to apply it to my life on a regular basis. I have often engaged people in "discussions" - the kind where they ask for your advice or opinion and only want your empathy or help justifying their current situation and struggles. Far too many times these conversations have lead to debates and hurt feelings, I was not able to speak to them from a position of love that they would accept or understand.
It is hard not to approach every discussion as an opportunity to teach, glean, or help solve a problem - we must be mindful of the other's heart. Where are they in their life? Maybe they just need compassion and love; I am not advocating condoning all activities, but we must hear the person's heart. Only after hearing one's heart can it be determined if we are engaging a mocker or a fool or hopefully someone who is seeking wisdom.
Be careful, sometimes people engage us so we can be taught, check your heart lest you might be the fool.
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