It's an important aspect of the Christian faith to give and receive correction graciously and humbly. In fact, our spiritual maturity is directly linked to our ability to accept valid correction.
“Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you” (Proverbs 9:8).
⮞ Mature believers understand the beauty of valid correction:
“An open rebuke is better than hidden love! Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy” (Proverbs 27:5-6).
⮞ They understand that humble repentance leads to God’s favor:
“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble” (James 4:1-10).
⮞ Most importantly, they understand how serious it is to excuse or deny their sins:
“If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us” (1 John 1:8-10).
A sin isn't simply a mistake. An excuse-filled explanation is not an apology (Proverbs 28:13).
Let's live like mature believers, listening carefully to those who correct us, seeking God, and responding biblically.
Do you want to prepare your heart for correction? See The Sting of Correction.
I encourage you to check out the Wisdom for Life Devotional. It contains 100 one-minute devotions to challenge, encourage, instruct, and inspire your love for God's Word: Wisdom for Life. Read the story behind Wisdom for Life HERE. And find out about the two free Bible studies with purchase HERE.
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I like the fact you said "Valid" correction. Name calling is not valid correction but examples of specific sin is. Satan says "you are a liar" but God says "That was a lie."
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