A rebuke makes a greater impression on a discerning person than a hundred lashes on a fool. Proverbs 17:10, TLV

Lashings—With a Wet Noodle?     Does anyone remember the advice columnist “Ann Landers”? She and “Dear Abby” were big deals in the newspaper world. Their columns were syndicated regular features in hundreds of newspapers—maybe thousands.

Ann Landers and Dear Abby were nom de plumes, but their advice, written by twin Jewish sisters — Esther “Eppie” Lederer and Pauline Phillips — was more than fluff. They both carried a lot of truth.

I grew up reading Ann Landers in the 60’s and 70’s. What I loved about her was her willingness to admit when she had made a mistake or gave wrong advice. Her classic line when she stood corrected, was that she should be given 30 lashes with a wet noodle.

Not quite what King Solomon had in mind here, I’m sure. Still, it reminded me that her public acknowledgement of her mistake was admirable.

Noodle Lashings

How I wish I could learn lessons the first time — to take my noodle lashing. To not suffer the harsher lashes of regret or embarrassment for repeating foolish decisions.

I suppose to learn a lesson the first time is to accept the rebuke. To really explore with our Heavenly Father the ins and outs of His teaching. To pay attention to how we got there and watch for the same signs warning us we’re heading in the wrong direction.

As uncomfortable as it is to receive a rebuke, it’s better than the emotional lashing or the physical repercussions of poor decisions, don’t you think? So, I think I’ll take that lashing with a wet noodle and learn.

Think More About It

Have you endured a wet-noodle lashing? How was it helpful to your walk?

Until tomorrow, may we be discerning and learn from rebukes, my friends.

He who planted the ear, does He not hear?
He who formed the eye, does He not see?
He who chastens nations, will He not rebuke—
One who teaches humanity knowledge?
ADONAI [the LORD] knows human thoughts—
they are but a breath. Psalm 94:9-11, TLV

Our Heavenly Father knows our thoughts, our motives. A rebuke is not meant to point fingers and humiliate, it is meant to teach. Let’s agree in prayer that we all—Israel, too—will receive rebukes in gratitude so that we may grow in wisdom, knowledge, discernment, and understanding. God bless you!