Rebuked In Love

Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult;whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse.Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you;rebuke a wise man and he will love you.

Proverbs 9:7-8 (NIV)

It’s been said that some people would rather be destroyed by compliments than saved by criticism.

Well, that’s true. In the real world you can win some of the people some of the time, but some people, absolutely none of the time. So, first of all, never venture into the realm of correcting others without praying for discernment to know which is which. With some—maybe with many—don’t waste your breath. Even the kindest, most gracious, honest comment will be twisted and overthought and misconstrued. Yep, we’ve learned that the hard way, haven’t we? To correct a fool is barking up the wrong tree.

But don’t give up on everyone. Recently I needed to have a little heart-to-heart talk with a dear friend. I was not annoyed or mad, just concerned. I hoped she would hear me out. I hoped she would know that what I said was not to hurt her but sincerely to strengthen and stretch her. Miracle upon miracle, she did receive my word, and in the end, this manifested not that I was wise, but that she is.

Make It Personal . . . Live It Out!

A wise man (or woman) loves rebuke. Therefore, if you are serious about becoming a woman of wisdom, you need to let your own defensive guard down. It is not good if your family or friends or coworkers are afraid to address issues honestly with you for fear of your response. And even an unfair, unkind criticism can be a blessing, for it can send you to the foot of the Cross. There, the Lord himself will help you sort it out to see if there is an element of truth that you need to take to heart. He can then help you live it out in godly sorrow and true repentance. That is why they call him Savior.

One Year Bible Reading

Exodus 35:10–36:38; Matthew 27:32-66; Psalm 34:1-10; Proverbs 9:7-8