This past Sunday I had the privilege of preaching from 1 Timothy 5:1-2: "Do not rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, with all purity."
The reality is, we all need correction from time to time. There are blind spots in our perceptions, attitudes, and actions that occasionally need adjustment. But how should we receive that kind of correction? Let me give you a few steps to implement.
1. Is the person giving the correction a trusted individual in your life?
In other words, is this a person who is close to you and knows you, your personality, and strengths/weaknesses? You do not need to give everyone the right to speak into your life. If the person is on the outside of your sphere of influence, think twice before receiving their correction.
2. Is the person giving you correction doing it publicly or privately?
Loving correction as a general rule needs to be done privately. While there are certain instances where public correction is necessary that should be the exception, not the norm. Many times an individual attempting to correct you in public has ulterior motives: cause you embarrassment, undermine you, etc.
3. What is the attitude in which the correction is given to you?
In the 1 Timothy 5:1-2, "Paul says do not rebuke..." That word rebuke carries the connotation of harshness and violence. Rather, he says, "exhort." The word exhort in the Greek conveys the idea of encouragement, walking alongside someone to help them.
If the attitude to the individual attempting correction is harsh and angry, that is a good sign you do not need to receive it. However, if the attitude of the individual is one of encouragement, and trying to help you in your walk with Christ then God is using that person as an instrument in your life.
If the individual meets these three criteria, what should be your reaction?
1. Receive it with humility.
It is never easy to be corrected, even if it is warranted and the individual does it biblically.
2. Thank the individual.
It takes great courage to lovingly confront and correct someone. Thank the person for loving you enough to want God's best for you.
3. Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Ask God to show you how to implement what was said in your life.
While it might be painful, having someone lovingly correct you can be the best thing to happen to you if you receive it in a godly way.
Serving Christ, Loving Others, and Growing Together,
Dr. Bryan Cox
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