What’s my attitude toward instructions?

If I can figure out the matter on my own, do I need to be instructed?

I suppose it depends on what “the matter” is. If it has to do with operating our push mower, I think I can do it without instructions. But if it has to do with flying our radio controlled helicopter, I’d better check the instructions first.

Fine. But what is my overall attitude toward being told?

And what attitude have my children grown up with?

“A wise son heareth his father’s instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke” (1).

Rebuke. Oh my. Now there’s another can of worms coming home to roost.

I must keep working at having a heart tender and receptive toward both instruction and rebuke.

I must also keep working at having a heart willing enough and tender enough to give both instruction and rebuke.

from Proverbs 13:6

A little bit more from Proverbs 13: xx