Proverbs 10:13

The book of Proverbs gives us a lot of instruction on a lot of different subjects. One subject that can keep us in God’s wisdom is Godly Follower-ship. Who we follow; where we follow; how we follow are all spoken about in Proverbs. Here is one of them about the impact of wisdom:

Proverbs 10:13 (NASBStr)

On the lips of the discerning, wisdom is found,

But a rod is for the back of him who lacks understanding.

Proverbs 10:13 (ESV)

On the lips of him who has understanding, wisdom is found,

but a rod is for the back of him who lacks sense.

The lips and the back ... this is the theme of Solomon's proverb, above.   He wants us to know that those who have wisdom and those who don't have very different results for their lives.   The wise person, as a result of the wisdom dwelling within them, will see that wisdom flow from their hearts to their lips, producing discernment.   Those who have wisdom will always have the fruit of that wisdom flowing from their lips to the ears of others.    However, in contrast, the fool, the one who lacks understanding (a by-product of wisdom) will be exposed to discipline.  That discipline is often characterized by a "rod to the back."   See the following verses ... Solomon puts a lot of emphasis on the fool's back:  Proverbs 14:3; 19:29; 26:3.  Discipline and hardship awaits those who reject the fear of The Lord.    When we reject God's wisdom we will make foolish choices and walk down foolish paths.  Those choices and paths will give us hardships and pain.   The contrast Solomon provides is obvious.  It is the theme of the book.   Following God by faith will produce wisdom in the heart and discernment on the heart.   Rejecting wisdom will incur severe blows to the back.   In one you provide fruit to others.  In the other you suffer alone in pain and need others to care for you.