Destruction vs. Reward: Proverbs 13:13

Proverbs 13:13 He who despises the word will be destroyed, but he who fears the commandment will be rewarded.

How we see and react to the instructions given to us significantly influences the outcome of those instructions. The father instructs the son in numerous ways throughout the Proverbs, with the intent of guiding him to make wise choices. The son’s response will result in one of two things, destruction, or reward. The two responses that he may have are to despise or to fear.

To despise means to disrespect or disregard. How often do we see the word of GOD being trampled underfoot? Perhaps, if we had more respect for the author, we would be more inclined to listen to the words.

Having reverence for the LORD and applying godly wisdom go hand in hand.