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Do you recall the challenge and, perhaps, frustration of mastering a new skill? Whether it was learning an instrument or a new language, could you have achieved it without assistance? Receiving kind correction can be a key to success.
Drawing closer to God parallels this—we rely on others to point out our blind spots. In Psalm 141:5, David seeks the necessary guidance and feedback for spiritual growth, even if it involves confronting uncomfortable truths. His cried:
“Let the godly strike me! It will be a kindness! If they correct me, it is soothing medicine. Don’t let me refuse it,”
Psalm 141:5, New Living Translation
Kind correction can challenge weaknesses, but pride slows progress. Trusted counsel fosters growth.
Humility is vital for embracing feedback and seeking God’s help. We were created to rely on each other, guided by the Holy Spirit.
Consider the consequences of a small metal fragment from a broken knife lodged in a compass. This minor deviation, if unchecked, can result in significant disaster for a ship. It underscores the importance of receiving kind correction. Like a removal of that small piece of metal.
It may be hard to accept criticism from imperfect individuals, yet isn’t imperfection universal? Sometimes God compels u to offer correction to others.
Picture yourself trapped in a murky swamp, with the shore within reach. Each step sinks you deeper until you’re barely making progress, sinking past your waist.
A stranger who has made it to shore points to a spot in the water nearby. You can’t see anything. But will you listen? You step onto a rock visible only from the shore and feel relief. When receiving kind correction, seek God’s guidance. Don’t take it negatively but as a gift from someone investing in your growth. Spiritual maturity requires the steppingstone of kind correction.
Lord, thank You that no matter how dark things feel around me or inside me, Your Spirit reaches out—sometimes through Your people, sometimes through a still, small voice calling in my heart. Forgive me for the pride that keeps me from seeking out godly guidance at times. I want to be soft-hearted and open to the guidance of others. Thank You for putting people in my life to help me draw closer to You. Amen.
Listen now to the short version of this Abide meditation, “Receiving Kind Correction,” based on Psalm 141:5. Let God speak to your heart about how you correct others as well as how you receive correction.
Let Abide be your daily companion as you learn about receiving kind correction. Our more than 1500 biblical meditations all exist to help you grow closer to God and learn His way of living. Download the app and start a premium subscription. This will gain you access to our entire library of content. Use this link for 25% off.
