Proverbs 13:1 (ESV)

[1] A wise son hears his father’s instruction,

but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.

Proverbs 13 describes the difference between the wise and the fool on several levels. There are a number of lessons in the chapter, but the primary point seems to be that those who are wise listen. The wise understand that they still have much to learn. The fool thinks he knows it all. The wise hang out with wise people, listen to rebuke and discipline, and pay attention to instruction. The fool, in arrogance, despises rebuke and discipline.

There is nothing more insolent than a fool with a little knowledge. There is an arrogance in young and old that hinders them from learning. What a refreshing experience to find a young person who wants to learn. What an incredible example to find an older individual who is still learning. Do you want to be wise? Then learn to listen well. With humility comes honor and wisdom. With arrogance comes loss. May God teach us to listen well.