"When others give us compliments, They are so easy to believe; And though it’s wise to take rebukes, We find them harder to receive. —Sper"
I got that from the Daily Bread entry on February 11, 2008, The Wounds of a Friend.
I realized that it does take a certain level of humility, maturity and courage to accept a rebuke for something wrong we've done. We usually end up being on the defensive side once our attention is called. We go to great lengths of justifying our deeds, no matter how inconsistent and illogical they may be. Worst, we end up shooting down those who deliver the message of the Lord or putting up walls around us just so we can protect ourselves and our dignity...pride.
However, we should realize that there are people out there who have good intentions. They do not seek to uplift themselves at our expense. Their mission is to make us realize, in a good and loving way, that we have gone astray. They are there to help us get back onto the right path of righteousness.
It is said in the same entry at the Daily Bread that “he who receives correction is prudent” (Prov. 15:5) and “wise” (9:8-9).
In 2 Samuel 12:1-13, Nathan was sent by the Lord to rebuke David, who took the wife of one of his soldiers and have the latter put in front of the battle to be killed. Upon hearing the message from Nathan, David immediately admitted that he sinned against the Lord. Immediately, he was forgiven for his sins and was told that he is not going to die.
Isn't the Lord a wonderful God? He always gives us second chances as long as we admit our guilt and ask forgiveness, His arms is always open to us, his children.
Today, I pray, that I will be able to accept the rebuke of people who actually cares for me. I pray that I put down the walls I have created and allow my friends to see through me and help me get back to the right path. I pray that I can do the same to others, with love and wisdom.
