By Minister Mamie L. Pack

Heeding correction

“32) He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding. 33) The fear of the LORD teaches a man wisdom, and humility comes before honor.” Proverbs 15: 32-33 NIV

Growing up, there were many times that I knowingly defied my mother.  I knew the rules and expectations she had set before me, but I had it made up in my mind that I wanted to what I wanted to do. Even well into my twenties, I still would grow angry at her words of correction.  Within me, I believed that she didn’t want me to be happy, that she was just trying to control me, or that, in her eyes, I could never do anything right.  Because of those lies planted in my mind, I would usually shun from her correction and respond in some sort of rebellion.

Even now as a parent, I am witnessing my own children stray from our guidance and correction because they want to do what they want to do.  When we get into this state of mind, it only results in us getting hurt.  As parents, you see the danger of what lies ahead of your children for their rebellion.  You want to do all you can to protect them, but know that correction is a necessity and is a reflection of your love.  Because I love my children, I am going to correct them. The same can be said in my role as a mentor. 

The fifteenth chapter of Proverbs is filled of contrasts regarding the person full of wisdom versus the foolish individual.  In verse 32, we are given two individual.  Individual #1 ignores discipline.  This person turns a deaf ear to Christ, refuses to obey the promptings of the Holy Spirit, ignores guidance from those in leadership within ministry, or disregards the instruction of those in authority roles. This person has turned his/her back to Christ.  According to this scripture, the person who ignores discipline, or correction, despises himself.  They show that they have little care for themselves or their eternal direction. During this time, the person is choosing to please the flesh and ignore the spirit.  Then there is individual #2 who not only listens to correction, but applies the correction in the necessary areas of his/her life.  This individual is not only willing to be taught, but is willing to be corrected when he/she has strayed.  Upon revelation of the wrongdoing, this person is willing to repent and make changes in his/her actions. 

For many of us, gone are the days where the correction for our disobedience leads to a spanking, time out, or losing a privilege.  The sin our disobedience carries a much heavier price.  In refusing instructions, choosing to live a life of sin, or turning a deaf ear to correction, we can sever our relationship with Christ.  We limit the blessings and prosperity He has for our lives and keep ourselves in bondage when Christ already set us free.  Christ wants us to live life and live it more abundantly, but that means we must do our part in being obedient.  The next time you find yourself being corrected or reproved, don’t get angry, rebel, or turn a deaf ear.  Do whatever is necessary to be obedient to the Word of Christ.

Prayer.

My God, how many times have you continued to love me even when I choose to turn away and live a embrace sin?  I am so thankful that you care enough about me to correct me.  Thank you for sending people in my life who care enough about me that they correct me when they see that I am straying from your word.  Help me Lord so that I may have an ear to receive correction.  I pray that my heart may be willing and that I have a repentant heart.  I pray that I am not comfortable in my sin but that I seek to obey your word in every area of my life.  Forgive me Lord for my rebellion and disobedience.  Please bless all of those who have continually held me accountable to your Word.  In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Suggested Weekly Reading

Monday           Proverbs 15: 32-33

Tuesday           Psalm 111: 10

Wednesday      Job 28: 28

Thursday          Proverbs 8: 33

Friday              Ecclesiastes 12: 13

Saturday           Proverbs 16: 1

Sunday Proverbs 1: 7

Application

Have a willing spirit to be taught and corrected. 

About the author:

As a wife, mother, educator, daughter, friend, I, Minister Mamie L. Pack, seek to be an accessible tool to the Lord.  It is my desire to use my gifting of writing to reach the lost, encourage the believer, and teach the people through the Word of Jesus Christ.  Click here for other writings available at the author's blog  www.LifeINowLive.blogspot.com 

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