Proverbs 24:25

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 rebuking others:

Proverbs 24:25 (ESV)

but those who rebuke the wicked will have delight,

and a good blessing will come upon them.

In today's society this above proverb would be ill-advised.   We have plenty of examples in this day of people who have even blurted out an objectionable words toward someone or some group and been excoriated by the public and the press.   They are “shamed” for their behavior and outspoken thoughts.   This proverb is tied with the previous proverbs in this chapter about admonishing the righteous and warning the wicked.   In this particular verse Solomon is warning us about not simply saying something about someone living in sin, but "rebuking" that person.   The best example of this proverb is in the story of John the Baptist who told Herod he was wrong and sinful and stood in judgment because Herod had taken the life of his brother in order to take his brother's wife.   This act costs John the Baptist his head.   One might argue against Solomon's statement that there is blessing on the person who rebukes the wicked and they will be in "delight".  Yet, John the Baptist was praised by Christ ... Praised BY Christ!!!   That would be considered quite a blessing.   In this world today, we will be persecuted for standing up for our beliefs and for rebuking the world for their ungodly conduct in this world.   We might think the blessing spoken of above is for this world.   And, at times, it may.   But, if not this world, definitely the next.   God takes care of those who speak for Him.   We have nothing to fear and everything good to the glory of God when we speak for Him.