Definition: He [is in] the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Proverbs 10:17. It's a really important and layered message about living a good and fulfilling life. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Think of it like this: “He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction” : This part means that when you follow God’s principles, rules, and wisdom, you're on the right path. It’s about living a moral and righteous life. It’s about making good choices and doing what’s right. “But he that refuseth reproof erreth” : This is the key part! "Reproof" means to learn from your mistakes, to understand why you made them, and to change your behavior. “Erreth” means “to err” or “to go astray.” If you refuse to listen to correction – to admit you’re wrong – you'll keep making the same mistakes over and over. Putting it all together: Basically, it says that if you want a good life, you need to be open to learning from your mistakes and admitting when you’re wrong. It’s about growth and improvement. Why is this important? The Bible encourages us to: Grow in wisdom: Learning and understanding God's ways helps us become better people. Make good choices: Choosing the right path, even when it’s difficult, leads to a happier and more fulfilling life. Avoid repeating mistakes: If we don't learn from our errors, we’ll keep stumbling around in the dark. In short, Proverbs 10:17 is a powerful reminder that learning and growing – through repentance and understanding – are essential for a good life. --- Do you want me to explain any of this further? For example, would you like me to: Give an example of how this verse applies to a specific situation? Explain the concept of “reproof” in more detail?