Proverbs 15:31-33 (ESV)
31 The ear that listens to life-giving reproof
will dwell among the wise.
32 Whoever ignores instruction despises himself,
but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence.
33 The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom,
and humility comes before honor.
The one who listens and responds to God’s word is considered wise. The person who refuses to put the teaching of the Lord into practice is in essence committing suicide, hating herself by ensuring her own eternal death. To be wise, one must fear the Lord and be willing to submit to his design for human life. We must humbly acknowledge that we need God’s help. We are foolish if we believe that we know or understand more than God does. When we reject his truth, it’s like we are saying, “Thanks for the advice God, but my ways are better than yours.” Even though things may not make perfect sense to us, appear to be the way we think they should be, or even feel as fun or comfortable as we would like them too, God knows exactly what is best. The wise person recognizes this truth, admits her own limitations and makes her choices consistent with Scripture.