Correcting a Mocker
Proverbs 9:8 (NLT) “So don’t bother correcting mockers; they will only hate you. But correct the wise,
and they will love you.”
In this day and age, it is very difficult to ignore someone who persistently accuses you of something incorrect. No one likes to have their name slandered. Or, if you are doing a good deed by correcting someone who is in error, your motive is only to ensure that everyone else is getting the correct information. But usually we get a negative response, such as “Who asked you?” or “Did I ask for your opinion?” God has clear warnings regarding speaking to or correcting mockers.
Correcting a scoffer (a mocker) is almost a guarantee of heated verbal retaliation. A mocker doesn’t care about being right. They just want to be heard. They want their time in the spotlight so that their names will be recognized. So they will say anything in a public forum, grab the microphone, and say whatever to cause an emotional reaction. Oh yes, they want others to post a video of them debating you. Their goal is to embarrass, harass, and get an emotional outburst from you.
Verse 7 of Proverbs 9 outlines the consequences:
Proverbs 9:7 (NLT) “Anyone who rebukes a mocker will get an insult in return. Anyone who corrects the wicked will get hurt.”
Don’t spend time addressing a mocker or trying to correct them. They are not listening to you, and they will take whatever you say as an offense. Because it is all about them. So yes, it is a total waste of your time. Jesus didn’t waste His time with mockers. In fact, He called them out for who they were, then moved on. Sometimes, the unspoken word is the most powerful response that you can give. This is a form of meekness. Meekness is defined as tremendous power under control. The world wants to see the drama. They even have reality TV shows to ridicule and embarrass contestants through rap songs or flat-out betrayal. Holding your peace by not responding shows tremendous inner control.
Correct a wise person, and they will love you for it. A wise person is always open to accepting corrections and rebuke so that they will increase their wisdom. A wise person will understand your motives and give you the benefit of the doubt rather than jumping to conclusions or taking offense quickly.
Ask God for the right time to speak. He will let you know.
Be Blessed!
Ron
Ron Cobbs Ministries © Copyright July 10th, 2026, All Rights Reserved
