RE: Why Proverbs 13:18 is Difficult to Read

Proverbs 13:18 says, "Whoever disregards discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored."

Calvinists believe that this verse teaches that God uses discipline to sanctify his people. Discipline is not punishment, but rather a loving correction from God designed to help us grow in holiness. When we disregard discipline, we are hardening our hearts and resisting God's work in our lives. This ultimately leads to poverty and shame.

However, when we heed correction, we are showing that we are humble and teachable. We are submitting to God's authority and allowing him to work in our lives. This leads to honor and blessing.

In the Calvinist view, discipline is not something that we can earn or avoid. It is a gift from God that he gives to his elect in order to conform them to the image of Christ. Therefore, we should be grateful for discipline and receive it with humility.

Here is a quote from the Reformed theologian John Calvin on Proverbs 13:18:

"The wise man teaches us that it is to our advantage to be chastened by God. For if we receive the reproofs of God with humility, they will be to us as a spur to repentance, and will help us to advance in the way of righteousness. But if we despise them, and harden our hearts against them, they will be to us as a rod to punish our disobedience."

Calvinists believe that this verse is a reminder that God loves his people and wants them to be holy. He uses discipline to help them achieve this goal.