“Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but one who hates correction is stupid.”- Proverbs 12:1
I have to say that I was, at first, a little taken back by this text. It seems to be abrupt, and somewhat course. I found it helpful to look at the definitions of some of the words in broader terms. Let me explain.
As relating to our text, discipline is defined in at least two ways: 1) as "the practice of training people to obey rules or a code of behaviour" or 2) as "using punishment to correct disobedience." For myself, the first definition would be preferred over punishment because it would imply mutual cooperation towards common goals or values.
The best training in this sense that I have received has come through the intentional efforts of those whom I came to trust and respect deeply. Their time and influence shaped me and enabled me to be of service to others. By contrast, physical punishment, at least for me, may have yielded compliance, but it certainly did not endear me to one who imposed their will upon me.
Our text continues..."Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge". Knowledge is obtained as "facts, information, and skills acquired by a person through experience or education" and this experience leads to a "theoretical or practical understanding of a subject."
Therefore, discipline or training should lead us to an increased awareness of reality, that we might make the best decisions in life. Decisions that would build us and others. A disciplined life encourages us to be open to opportunities that would train us and fit us with skill and information that would help us to realize goals in practical, relational terms.
Biblically speaking, this experience should lead us to the "abundance" that Jesus promised in John 10:10 and I have experienced this personally. Discipline and knowledge have born good fruit into my life and have opened doors of opportunity that may have otherwise been closed.
As our text continues, "one who hates correction is stupid." A more gentle translation is found in the Message bible. I quote, "If you love learning, you love the discipline that goes with it - how shortsighted to refuse correction!" Correction is defined as punishment, especially that of criminals in prison intended to rectify their behaviour. To hate correction in our context, would indicate an unwillingness to grow or to change opinion or conduct in the light of training or new information. Such a person is deemed by our text, as one who at best would be "dazed and unable to think clearly" or at worst, one who would "have, or show a great lack of intelligence or common sense." Not good!
At a practical level, I am reminded of my Father, who at times would discipline me. His parental perspective was larger than whatever the current issue may have been, and He wanted to challenge me to rise above whatever was drawing me in, in deference to conduct that would bear better fruit in my life and in those whom I would influence. His goal was to fit me to stand as one would contribute as an adult to the greater good of society. And perhaps, this is key. Spiritually, the Lord would lift us up and above the restraints of sinful attitudes and behaviour and fit us for happy active service in this life and the life to come.
In Hebrews 12:11, we find the writers thoughts to be relevant to our discussion. "Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."
In the light of God's goal to put an end to sin and to usher in a new and better reality, we would do well to ponder the gift that He offers us in Christ. "...as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord"(Romans 5:21).
I never lost a life when I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Saviour, I got a life. In the bible, I found information that informs my decisions and actions and I have lived a very full, engaging life. I have no regrets in making this decision.
May the Lord help you to see the blessings of a disciplined life as we continue to consider the wisdom found in the book of Proverbs.