Proverbs 29:19

The book of Proverbs gives us insights into so many different areas of life. The book gives us instruction on how to live our lives for God. Here is a proverb that gives us insight about motivation:

Proverbs 29:19 (ESV Strong's)

By mere words a servant is not disciplined,

for though he understands, he will not respond.

Proverbs 29:19 (NASBStr)

A slave will not be instructed by words alone;

For though he understands, there will be no response.

Proverbs 29:19 (NIV1984)

A servant cannot be corrected by mere words;

though he understands, he will not respond.

In leadership training there is much talk about how to motivate employees or workers.   Much has been written in the modern world of psychology on the art and aspect of motivational theory.   Just how do you motivate someone who is supposed to be working for you?   Apparently, according to Solomon in the above proverb, there is at least one type of employee (servant) who will not be motivated, corrected, or instructed by mere words.  Typical motivational speech will not work on this person.   Solomon is implying you have to have something other than words to get them to adhere to the instructions you are giving them.   We can talk and titilliate and reward with carrot all we want, but apparently, this person is only motivated by the fear of discipline.   If they were serving out of love, this proverb would not apply.  If they were serving out of duty, this proverb would not apply.   If they were serving out of the hope of reward, this proverb would not apply.   There are servants (employees) who do serve for one of those reasons.   But, this particular person is only motivated by the threat of discipline.   Mere words are not enough.   One size does not fit all in the motivation of others.   Solomon is telling us that we need to know the servant if we want the employee the correct motivation.

Each line of the Hebrew poem works in conjunction with the other. In this proverb the second line gives further information on the first line. The subject mentioned here is on correcting those under you in authority. Yes, the context uses the word slaves, something we would despise and reject today. But, the meaning of the text here should not be rejected. When we have others under our authority (parent-child; employer-employee; coach-player; etc.) we may not be able to correct them with simple instructions. They might understand, but understanding is not enough. The verse does not imply we are then to strike them, beat them or hurt them. It is simply stating that words and instructions, given in the best manner may never be enough for some. The servant will not change until there is an emotional attachment with his heart. State your case and wait for God to change the heart. We are not the ones who have the ability to change hearts. Only God does that.