LISTENING TO ADVICE AND CORRECTION
Christine Fornaro
Today's Scripture: “Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy.” Proverbs 27:6, ESV
Theme: Be willing to accept feedback and accountability from those who will lovingly challenge you.
THE SWEETNESS OF A FRIEND’S COUNCIL
I have a small handful of precious friends who know me well. They know my “ugly bits,” the parts of me that are inclined to sin. They’ve seen the parts that hold secrets, thoughts, feelings, or actions I’m not proud of. These ladies love me anyway, warts and all. I know they have my best interest at heart. I know I can trust what they say to be true. So, if they come to me with a concern, I am inclined to listen.
Over the years they have stood by me and gently corrected me in times when I desperately needed it. They gave me time to ask myself tough questions and steadfastly offered prayer, healing advice, or forgiveness if I had wronged them unknowingly.
BE OPEN
Sometimes being criticized or being held accountable can be uncomfortable or embarrassing, and we can even feel exposed. But if we willingly allow loving correction and try to listen without being defensive, we can be free of personal hang ups that get in the way of a healthy mental and spiritual state.
Are you open to constructive criticism? It’s not pleasant or comfortable in the moment. But honest self-reflection can be a gift, and it can bring positive change in your life.
Make It Personal: If you don’t feel like you have at least one family member or friend in your life who you can trust to correct you or hold you accountable in a healthy way, pray for one!
Also know you have no better Friend than Jesus! He is always on your side, always loving, will never let you down, and the Holy Spirit will gently lead you along. He will never leave you “as-is.” He wants the best for you.
Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for not wanting us to remain the same. We give thanks to You; we are new creations! You have allowed us to grow and change for the better – to make us more like You every day. Even though self-reflection and change aren’t easy, You are with us every step of the way. Thank You for being the best and most patient Friend we could ask for.
Read: Proverbs 19:20, 17:9-10, 18:24, 27:9; Romans 12:10
Weekly Memory Verse: “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals.’” 1 Corinthians 15:33, ESV