Introduction
Before getting into the meaning of Proverbs 15:10, here’s different Bible translations:
King James Version
Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die.
American Standard Version
There is grievous correction for him that forsaketh the way; [And] he that hateth reproof shall die.
World English Bible version
There is stern discipline for one who forsakes the way: whoever hates reproof shall die.
Proverbs 15:10 Meaning & Commentary
There is severe discipline for him who forsakes the way; whoever hates reproof will die. – Proverbs 15:10 (ESV)
No one loves or enjoys disciple – in whatever form it comes. However, we need to know that discipline comes for a specific reason, not just for the sake of it. When a child does something wrong, and the parent brings discipline, there are usually a few different reasons this is done.
Firstly, the child needs to know that they have done wrong. If the child is left undisciplined (especially when young), they may not know they have done wrong. Secondly, because discipline is supposed to be painful, they should want to ‘avoid’ feeling the pain of discipline again – hence, it motivates them to stay on the right path in the future. So, when a parent brings discipline to a child whom they love, it is not just for the sake of it, but it is for the child’s benefit.
Hebrews 12:5-6 – And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” This is why severe discipline comes (or should come) to someone who forsakes the way. It is not to ‘punish’ them but rather to get them back onto the way!
Discipline can come in different forms – parents, mentors, church leaders, or God himself. The point is that it comes to us with a specific ‘purpose,’ which is to correct our behavior and get us onto the path we should be walking! This is why the second part of Proverbs 15:10 says that whoever hates reproof will die. If you hate reproof, correction, or instruction – how will you turn away from the path you are walking on and onto God’s path? You will not, and hence you will carry on down the wrong path and eventually meet ‘death’ – either actual or death’ in certain areas of your life.
Application
How can we apply Proverbs 15:10 to our lives?
If we are walking on this journey with God, we will almost certainly need to be disciplined at some point. How we receive and respond to that discipline makes all the difference. Even when we look at the life of Jesus, we see that although he was sinless – he still had to learn complete obedience to The Father: Hebrews 5:8 – Although he (Jesus) was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered.
Discipline usually comes in the form of some sort of suffering or pain. When The Bible talks about discipline, it does not minimize or ignore the truth that it does not usually feel ‘pleasant’ – therefore, neither do we need to minimize this truth either. However, it does teach us that the ‘results’ or the outcome of suffering is why we should embrace it:
Hebrews 12:11 – For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. When we embrace discipline – which is what we should do, it has the potential to yield good fruit in our lives. Discipline and rebuke go hand in hand – sometimes, rebuke is a form of discipline. So, we need to change our mindset and attitude toward discipline, and instead of trying to avoid it at all costs, look for the lessons we can learn from it.
Additionally, the Bible gives us a few other keys to apply during tough times (which can include times of discipline). Firstly, we are commanded to pray: James 5:13 – Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise.
Secondly, we should ask for wisdom to navigate the situation: James 1:2-5 – Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for opening my eyes to the truth that discipline is for my benefit. Help me take the lessons needed from every form of discipline in my life and apply them for my benefit.
Thank You for loving me enough to correct me and bring me back on track when I venture away from where I should be. I ask for wisdom today to navigate every situation I am facing. I pray this now in Jesus’ name. Amen!
