Originally published Monday, 12 October 2015.
www.insideoutwithcourtnaye.org
This can be a tough one, any way you look at it. Mainly, because being corrected is not usually easy to handle. And giving it, can be even more uncomfortable (for some). However, in order to grow and become more mature in Christ, we must be corrected while also being able to correct someone else if necessary for their spiritual health. So in this week’s post, I’m going to be writing about how to give and take correction. Ready? Okay…
The Bible tells us that it is stupid to hate correction! Hey! Don’t take my word for it. Proverbs 12:1 states, “To learn, you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction.” (NLT) The first time that I ever read this verse I said, “Whoa!” It was so strong! Yet, it became a life-changing Scripture for me and I never forgot it. I pray you won’t forget it as well.
Now…let me ask you a few questions. Have you ever been corrected? If so, how did it make you feel? Pause for a second and really think about it. Were you upset or did you receive it well? I’ll tell you, receiving correction does not feel good. I would know! It can be downright painful. Personally, I think it’s because it breaks down egos and pricks pride. And it can be very humbling.
Disciplinary action never feels good. One way or another…it hurts!
God’s word confirms this notion through Hebrews 12:11 saying, “No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening-it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.” (NLT) So you see. Yes, it can be painful when you’re being corrected, but its purpose is to bring forth spiritual growth, maturity, and right living.
Not only that, but it’s also love from the Father. God tells us in Hebrews 12:5-6, “My child, don’t make light of the Lord’s discipline, and don’t give up when he corrects you. For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.” (NLT) As a Christian, you are God’s child. And just like any mother with her own child, if she truly loves that child, she would discipline him or her.
So take this seriously and don’t be discouraged when you’re corrected. Because ultimately, God is trying to teach you something. He’s training you in righteousness. He’s making you a stronger person and a greater light for His Kingdom. In other words, receive His love and the messenger. Because He uses people and His Holy Spirit to realign us when we make mistakes or are going the wrong way. That’s love.
As I prepare to close this post, know that sometimes you will be corrected. But let it humble you, so you can grow from it. Also keep in mind that you will also be the one who will need to correct. And no doubt, that can be an awkward feeling at times. However, if you love people, then you will do it and do it in love.
So do your part. Let God use you and change you as you learn how to give and take correction.
Remember, Jesus is coming back soon! And those who endure unto the end shall be saved. So let’s be ready from the Inside Out!
~Courtnaye
Thanks for reading this post! I hope and pray that you’ve been enlightened. If you have any comments or questions feel free to leave it here or email me @ insideoutwithcourtnaye@gmail.com and I’ll get back with you promptly. Don’t forget to visit my website @ www.insideoutwithcourtnaye.org for additional growth in your faith and leave a donation if Inside Out with Courtnaye has been a blessing to you. Also, “LIKE” my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutWCourtnaye, and follow me on Twitter at https://twitter.com/InOutwCourtnaye. Thanks and God bless you my sister!