How Do We Handle Correction?

David Sandlin

In light of the fact that  “all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23), there is an incessant need for correction so that we do not continue in sin.  This correction may come from our own study of God’s Word, or it may come from another person who is concerned about us.  In either case, the Word of God should be used to show us the right way to live.  Paul, in writing to Timothy, states:  “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Tim. 3:16). Yes, Scripture is profitable for correction.

 How do you handle correction?  We are told in Prov. 3:11,12 “My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of His correction: for whom the Lord loveth He correcteth even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.”  Many other Proverbs convey the same idea.  For instance:  “Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish” (Prov. 12:1).  “A fool despiseth his father’s instruction; buit he that  regardeth reproof is prudent.  Correction is grievous unto him that  forsaketh the way; and he that hateth reproof shall die.” (Prov. 15:5,10).  Correction is not always pleasant, but when given from the Bible, we are wise to accept it, without any question.

Consider not the giver of the correction but the truth of the instruction given and the fact that anything from God’s Word is for our good always.  In Hab. 1:12 we find that  the Lord had established the Chaldeans for the correction of Judah.  The Chaldeans were an idolatrous people, yet God used them to correct His people, Judah.  We must learn to constructively apply criticism even it it is not constructively given by our friends.  Of course, if we are the giver of rebuke it must be done in love.

 The Scriptures are profitable to us for the salvation of our souls.  If correction is needed, may we accept it unto repentance as David accepted the rebuke of Nathan regarding his sin with Bathsheba.  (2 Sam. 12).