By Pamela Rose Williams
A good indicator of a mature Christian is that he or she realizes they can never stop learning. Now I am not saying you must be in a formal education situation, but you should be willing to learn from those who have been gifted to teach you. When you are ready to learn from someone who is stronger in the faith than you, you show that you have a teachable heart, and you are humble to learn. This even means that sometimes we need to accept wise correction and criticism.
God gave us men and women that are strong in the faith as our teachers. It is He who has ordained them to help us as we walk with Him and grow closer to Christ. The Bible has so many things to say about instruction and correction, the good and bad. Here are some things that jumped out at me.
Cautions:
Love Instruction
Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish (Proverbs 12:1)
Hear Instruction
He that feareth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding (Proverbs 15:32)
Honorable Instruction
Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured (Proverbs 13:18)
Live for Correction
Correction is grevious unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die (Proverbs 15:10)
Blessings:
Obedient Ear
As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear. (Proverbs 25:12)
Anointing
Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head: for yet my prayer also shall be in their calamities. (Psalm 145:15)
God Loves and Corrects
For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. (Proverbs 3:12)
Consider it a gift when your brother or sister corrects you and instructs you. Or better yet, perhaps you might have some words of encouragement for someone who needs godly correction. Step up, give them what they need to grow.
Things to Think On and Do
- Can you recall a time when someone lovingly corrected you? Did you receive it as they intended? If not, can you thank them now for blessing you?
- Find at least two other verses (passages) in the Bible that talk about how correction is the right thing to do.
- Be bold, help your brother or sister to grow and show them the truth from Scripture when they err.
