Proverbs 15:31-33

The ear that heareth the reproof of life The man that hearkens to and delights in that reproof and good counsel which lead to life; abideth among the wise He will thereby be made wise, and be esteemed one of that number: or rather, he seeks and delights in the company and conversation of the wise, by whom he may be admonished; as, on the contrary, fools, who hate reproof, avoid and abhor the society of wise men and reprovers, Amos 5:10. He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul Which he thereby exposes to the danger of utter destruction, and so shows his folly; but he that heareth, &c., getteth understanding Whereby he saves his soul. Hebrew, קונה לב, possesseth a heart, which the Hebrews make the seat of wisdom. The fear of the Lord is the instruction, &c. Doth instruct men in, or lead them to, true wisdom, whence it is said to be the beginning of wisdom; and before honour Or, the ready way to honour, both from God and men; is humility Whereby men submit to God, and yield to men, which gains them love and respect; whereas pride procures them hatred and contempt, both from God and man.