Day 9, so Proverbs 9!
Today we read Proverbs 9:7 (GNT). The verse shows that someone may answer correction with insults instead of wanting to learn.
Imagine a friend does not follow the rules you agreed on during a game. You ask them to wait their turn, but they start calling you hurtful names. The game becomes an argument. You do not need to find a worse insult to answer back. You can say: "I want to play, but without name-calling."
When a trusted adult helps you notice a mistake, you may feel embarrassed or want to defend yourself. Breathe, listen, and ask what you can do differently. Making a mistake does not take away your worth. And correcting a mistake should not involve humiliating, threatening, or hurting you.
Jesus did not answer insults with insults. He loves us even when we make mistakes, before any task is done well. God's love does not depend on winning an argument or getting everything right. You can ask forgiveness and learn again with help.
If someone keeps insulting you, threatens you, or hurts you, move away when you can and tell a trusted adult. It is not your job to deal with someone else's aggression on your own or take care of grown-ups' problems.
Golden Phrase: "I can speak respectfully and ask for help!"