"Iron Sharpens Iron"

Proverbs 12:1  KJV

Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish. 

Who loves instruction loves knowledge.

He that hates reproof is brutish.

Since carnality is listed as one of the definitions of brutish, it doesn’t fit. A person who doesn’t like being rebuked, usually is carnal in spirit.

Reproof:

-an expression of censure or rebuke.

Brutish:

-brutal; cruel.

-gross; coarse.

-carnal; sensual.

-uncivilized.

-bestial; like an animal.

Proverbs 12:1 NLT

To learn, you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction.

To learn, you must love discipline 

It is stupid to hate correction.

We don’t equate “likeing”  or “loving” discipline with learning. Usually we relate it to not being liked. 

While that may be a possibility in some cases, more likely the wrong choice was made which resulted in an error or we are still in training.

Many of us like learning new things, but people do not like correction/discipline.

Correction:

-a quantity applied or other adjustment made in order to increase accuracy, as in the use of an instrument or the solution of a problem

-something that is substituted or proposed for what is wrong or inaccurate; emendation.

-the act of correcting.

Discipline:

training to act in accordance with rules; drill:

-an activity, exercise, or regimen that develops or improves a skill; training:

-punishment inflicted by way of correction and training.

-behavior in accord with rules of conduct; behavior and order maintained by training and control:

-a set or system of rules and regulations.

-Ecclesiastical. the system of government regulating the practice of a church as distinguished from its doctrine.

-to punish or penalize in order to train and control; correct; chastise.

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People who are in the military go through training and discipline.

Studies that will give us a profession go through training and discipline.

As we learn, there should be discipline taught. It makes for a tighter, pleasant, more stable workplace.

Often, depending on the environment, and job being performed, there are rules to be followed. But if there are rules, there is a purpose, reason behind it. 

If a learning environment and or institution fails to provide instruction related to following rules, that is half the problem. 

Someone training to be in a leadership role, if they aren’t taught in leadership, or they are not strong as a leader, it can cause problems in the workplace.

Imagine what it would be like if everyone did things their own way while training in the military.

How can we do work for the Lord and serve him in evangelism, doing things our way instead of his. 

This would s why there is deception I. The church with false preachers and teachers. It is also why people are taught half truths. 

And anyone in leadership who refuses to accept truth they lack is a danger to their congregation.

Doctors train in school then in the field- hands on, as do nurses and other people in their chosen profession.

We all have duties to perform. When workers cut corners. Then fight you tooth and nail when they are either corrected, or after numerous corrections, are disciplined. 

Everyone suffers, but the the people we are trying to help, who should be is the number one priority, is the one who suffers.

Being a disciplined person makes all the difference.

Proverbs 12:1 NLT

To learn, you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction.

we learn from proverbs 12:1. 

Those who love instruction, love knowledge. 

Most of us have it turned around. We love knowledge, but don’t love the 

discipline and correction that is needed to gain that knowledge.

We should focus on the learning, corrections, and discipline part no matter what the job entails, and the quality of work. 

Key to success is:

To learn, you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction.

Iron sharpens Iron 

Pro 27:17  Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. 

Countenance:  approval or favor; encouragement; moral support.

Proverbs 27:17 NLT

As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.

Proverbs 27:9

Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel.

Proverbs 12:1 NLT

To learn, you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction.

We have to recognize that iron sharpens iron. And it can occur with others who aren’t always a friend, but a supervisor or boss.

If we would appreciate what others sow into us instead of fighting against them, we would be able to see the blessings of learning skills, and knowledge.

In ministry this blesses the cause, God’s purpose. Those in ministry and the lay people who are in need.

It is needed because no one who is human, has all of the answers and most important of all, God communicates to our spirit, his message, guidance, and direction. 

We don’t want to miss out on that.

My closing prayer:

Lord, I pray for us to have a willing heart to learn and appreciate the wisdom that comes our way. 

Let us not fight against correction, or disrespect discipline. Shape our heart with humbleness and allow us to learn and gain the skills necessary to succeed on any path you place us on. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

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