Proverbs 21:11

    11      When the scoffer is punished, the simple is made wise;
    But when the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.
-Proverbs 21:11

It is a prudent thing to learn from others' mistakes. When witnessing the punishment of another, we can find ourselves, or even others, learning what not to do. Back in High School, my small class of 36 was pulled aside and told that we were the worst class this school had ever seen. We had a reputation of making teachers and substitutes quit. We also had a reputation of not caring about what was right. It truly was a class of people who did what was right in their own sight. At the end of our principal's tirade, he threw out a phrase that became my classes' motto, "If I can't use you as a good example, I will gladly use you as a bad one."

There is a lot of reality to that statement. The scoffer being punished is an example to those who would otherwise repeat the same behavior. The classes that were to follow us learned as my class had one restriction after another thrown on us. They withdrew their rebellious behavior and were then rewarded with benefits we never knew. The simple grew in wisdom.

The best case scenario is the wise man. By simple instruction they progress forward. Having the humility to heed the voices around you will help secure wisdom for you. To oppose it is to exert pride. In our simplicity, let us be made wise. In our wisdom, let us learn swiftly. Otherwise, let us be punished and be an example to those who would learn from our mistakes.