Proverbs 10:17-18 (ESV)
17 Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life,
but he who rejects reproof leads others astray.
18 The one who conceals hatred has lying lips,
and whoever utters slander is a fool.
Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life. To heed instruction is more than hearing advice. It means receiving correction, learning from mistakes, repenting of sin, and submitting to God’s wisdom. The woman who welcomes reproof may be humbled for a moment, but she is being led into life. Her teachable spirit guards her steps, matures her character, and becomes a path to life for others, an example they can safely follow.
But he who rejects reproof leads others astray. Refusing correction is never merely personal. The proud person not only wanders from the right path but influences others to do the same. A woman who resists correction may normalize sin, excuse foolishness, and misguide others by her example. Often, rather than humbly turning back, she wants company in her rebellion and seeks to bring others down with her. Those who reject wisdom are accountable for the harm they cause as they lead both themselves and others down a destructive road.
The one who conceals hatred has lying lips. Some hide inward bitterness behind pleasant words, polished manners, or even spiritual language. They may hate others and yet speak as though all is well. Often the one they resent is unaware of the hostility being harbored against them. But hidden hatred rarely stays hidden for long. What is nursed in the heart will eventually surface in words, attitudes, or actions unless it is confessed and forsaken.
Whoever utters slander is a fool. The hatred concealed in the heart is often revealed through the mouth. Slander spreads rumors, distorts reality, and tears down another person made in the image of God. Scripture does not call this harmless talk or clever revenge. It calls it folly. The fool lacks sound judgment and can do real damage to the lives of others.
Have you run across the woman who appears gracious and upright, yet habitually reveals dirt about others who have wronged her? Does she portray herself as the continual victim? Underneath this speech lies a heart of hatred. If you know this woman, be discerning and do not be drawn in. If you are this woman, repent today. Confess your bitterness, asking God to free you from bondage to darkness. You may be misleading others, but you are in no way deceiving the Lord.