by Dr. Charles Stanley
31
He whose ear listens to the life-giving reproof Will dwell among the wise. 32
He who neglects discipline despises himself, But he who listens to reproof acquires understanding. 33
The fear of the LORD is the instruction for wisdom, And before honor comes humility. Proverbs 15:31-33 NAS
No one likes criticism, but encountering some is inevitable, so we need
to learn how to respond in a godly way. Although you might be tempted
to become defensive or angry, remain calm and listen. The words may
hurt, but great benefits come to those who carefully consider what is
said.
If we refuse to accept reproof, we'll limit our potential for
Christlike character development and spiritual growth. Some of life's
best lessons come through difficult experiences. If God allowed the
situation, you can be sure that He wants to use it in transforming you
into His Son's image. Whether the criticism is valid or not, whether
it's delivered with kindness or harshness, your goal should always be to
respond in a way that glorifies the Lord. Remember that you are
responsible only for how you handle yourself, not for how the other
person is acting.
When a criticism comes your way, be quiet and listen until the other
person has finished. Make direct eye contact to show attentiveness and
respect. When your critic finishes, thank him for bringing his concerns
to your attention, and tell him that you will consider what he's said.
Ask the Lord if the accusation is valid. Let Him search your heart and
either affirm your innocence or convict you.
Every rebuke is an opportunity from God. It's a chance to let your
Christian character shine by showing love to your critic. If he is
angrily attacking you, your respect and kindness become a powerful
testimony. Criticism is also an occasion to humble yourself and accept
the Lord's correction.
Today's Bible Verse...
A bright cloud enveloped them, and
a voice from the cloud said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I
am well pleased. Listen to him!"—Matthew 17:5
Thoughts on Today's Verse...
Moses
and Elijah appeared with Jesus on the "Mount of Transfiguration" before
Jesus' closest disciples. This was the ultimate honor for them as
faithful Jews. God, however, wanted them to know that as important as
Moses and Elijah are, only Jesus is his Son. His Son's words are the
ultimate authority and the bottom-line truth of God's will. If we are to
be refreshed, renewed, and restored, we must begin by listening to and
obeying God's Son and our Lord, Jesus Christ.
My Prayer...
Righteous Father, please give me a holy hunger for the
words of Jesus. Help me as I seek to not only understand them, but also
live them. I want to make honoring you my life's work just as it was
his. Please give me wisdom today, as I seek to make decisions and face
difficult circumstances with integrity, grace, and obedience. In the
name of the Lord Jesus I pray. Amen.
The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.
Today's Verse Illustrated...
Faith in the Face of Danger by Joseph Farris
No comments:
Post a Comment