“Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.”

Proverbs 12:1

Gotta love those proverbs.  They don’t mince words.  You hate correction and you’re stupid.   

Well, meet stupid! 

As I was reading this proverb this morning, the Spirit of God brought to my mind three specific incidents this week in which faithful friends lovingly confronted me with a fault, failing or weakness.  Three!  And it’s only Wednesday! 

Now, I don’t think these friends will even remember it (and yes, one is my wife).  They were small conversations, spoken in love; sidebars really to their week.  Little moments of authenticity, a moment of truth.  But, what they said spoke to me in a much bigger way than they could ever know or have intended.  For you see, God was using them to reveal to me something about myself.   

In the moment, I responded graciously, or at least appeared to.  But, inside I was kind of ticked.  I was not yet willing to truly hear what they said.  My mind quickly generated comebacks “Cheap shot.  Unfair.  Not true!” and then rationalizations, “I never intended that… I was in a hurry, I’ve been under a lot of stress!”  But, when all of that subsided and I had a moment to reflect, the only thing I could do was admit that they were right.  I needed to be corrected. 

In some areas of my life I have no problem being teachable, because frankly, I don’t have a clue.  Got some advice on staying organized?  Want to help me with technology?  Or give me some fashion advice?  I’m all ears, ‘cause I got nothing and I know it.  But, in some other areas, I think I’m strong.  I’m doing just fine, thank you very much and you can keep your criticism or comments to yourself.      

God help me.  A cold splash of reality is uncomfortable, but in the end, very much appreciated.  I have no desire to be a fool.   Here’s a prayer for our week:

“Lord, help me to be teachable, open my eyes to my blind spots and thank you for your Holy Spirit and faithful friends who speak truth to me.”