The Hebrew word for instruction means correction resulting in education. The word also carries the thought of discipline or chastisement. We must not forget that God’s Word is given “for doctrine, reproof, correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” Let’s face it; we don’t do a very good job of governing our lives. We need God’s Word, like a compass, to direct us.
The book of Proverbs deals quite a bit with the subject of instruction. For example, Solomon wrote that God’s instruction can be known, received, or rejected. Parental instruction is endorsed, provided that it is “in the Lord”.
One of the rebukes spoken against Israel and Judah was, “they have not listened to receive instruction.” God rebuked the wicked for speaking His words while rejecting His instruction. Sexual immorality, Proverbs teaches, will lead to the mournful confession: “How I have hated instruction, and my heart despised correction! I have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined my ear to those who instructed me!” Much pain and sorrow can be avoided if one heeds the admonitions to: “Flee sexual immorality” and “Flee also youthful lusts”. It’s a simple fact that “reproofs of instruction are the way of life, to keep you from the evil woman”.
God instructs us as a father through His Word. He knows us completely. “He knows our frame…that we are dust.” Therefore He clearly instructs us about spiritual, eternal matters as well as practical, temporal things. It is imperative that we possess absolute confidence in God’s Word for our lives. He tells us that His instruction, knowledge and wisdom are better than silver, gold, or rubies. To refuse His words is spiritual suicide!
God’s instruction is perfect, sure, right, pure, true, desirable, ‘sweet’, and rewarding. His commandments are not grievous. Therefore, be wise and heed your heavenly Father’s instructions. That is the one thing that is needful, and it will indicate that you are on “the way of life”.
