A Burden of Wisdom

(Proverbs 25:12 KJV)  As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.

I don’t want to be a “reprover” (3198).  A reprover sets people straight by telling them where they have gone crooked.  Some would say it is the job of the preacher.

(2 Timothy 4:2 KJV)  Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

Jesus points out the it is everyone’s job,

(Matthew 18:15 KJV)  Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.

The key is to be “wise” (2450).  While I am sure I can point out plenty of flaws in other people, I am not so secure in my wisdom.  Because of that I often let things go when I should speak. 

So?  Correcting others is necessary but not to be taken lightly.  It requires constant contact with the word.  It requires study and prayer.  It requires risk but it is required.