Proverbs 10:17, People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life, but those who ignore correction will go astray.

The book of Proverbs often refers to a preferred pathway. In this text it refers to "the pathway of life." 

In our language there is a word called "pragmatic." Being pragmatic is about looking at the practical consequences of actions before actions are taken. The person who is pragmatic first considers what is best and then builds a plan to achieve it. For example, if being out of debt is the best objective, a pragmatist will not use a credit card for consumer debt.

A person on the path of life is someone who does not have a problem accepting correction from God and wise people. Sometimes people are so concerned about hurt feelings that they refuse to give or receive correction. Don't let your emotions get in the way of receiving what you need to stay on the path of life. Whatever the consequence or emotions that may follow correction cannot be worse than straying off a good pathway.

Reflection Question: What practical discipline should you apply to your life now to avoid some future problem?