Accept Correction

My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in. Proverbs 3:11-12

Have you ever been corrected and your first reaction was anger in your heart? Well, I have many times.  Do you notice it is like a self-defense mode is switched on in you when you are being corrected at times? I do!

As we read in our opening verse, the Lord disciplines the one He loves. And the Lord also acts through people. This means the correction or criticism we receive at times is an expression of God’s love. But we all have an enemy who is prowling around like a roaring lion looking for one to devour(1 Peter 5:8). He suggests pride to us when we are being corrected. No wonder proverbs 9:8 says that you should not correct a proud person because he will hate you for it. We are not infallible; that already means there is always room for correction. So we are to rebuke the proud thoughts that set in when we are being corrected.

Someone correcting or criticising you does not mean the person himself is perfect. However, if you take the correction you can improve yourself. As proverbs 9:9 says “instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still …”. You may not always have the privilege of being corrected in the manner you wish but don’t miss the opportunity to grow because of your ego. Also at times you might not even be convinced about the error being pointed out but receive it respectfully in order not to close a door through which you may receive valid corrections in the future. Again what you are not convinced of today might settle in and make sense to you sometime later. On our part when we are correcting or criticizing it is wiser and loving to appreciate what’s well first before introducing your correction. This relaxes the ego of the receiver and makes it easier to receive the correction. Try it and see!

There is a humbling effect when you are put in the spotlight of correction but endure the pain for as Hebrew 12:11 says no discipline seems pleasant at the time but later on you will reap the fruits. Also, remember the proud will be humbled and the humble exalted (Mathew 23:12)

Let’s thank God for His word. Let’s pray for the grace to accept corrections and criticism from whoever and however it may come.