In General... and Personal

 Proverbs 19:
24 The sluggard buries his hand in the dish
    and will not even bring it back to his mouth.
25 Strike a scoffer, and the simple will learn prudence;
    reprove a man of understanding, and he will gain knowledge.
26 He who does violence to his father and chases away his mother
    is a son who brings shame and reproach.
27 Cease to hear instruction, my son,
    and you will stray from the words of knowledge.

As we read through wise saying after wise saying, we can feel our heads nod in agreement with what is being pictured here for us. Lazy people become increasingly lazy. Discipline is good for all. Dishonor to parents brings shame to the one who does so.  But then, we come to verses like the last one above: "I'm talking to you, son." This is not just general knowledge. It is sage advice given in love to others we care about: children, grandchildren, and spiritual children. This is practical discipleship.  Actions and words reveal character.  An arrogant boldness does not indicate strength, but self-centered overconfidence. Submission and humility reveal understanding and prudence.  May we read these words as spoken to us.