How can we "listen to correction" in our daily walk with God? Scripture Focus “ He opens their ears to correction and commands that they turn from iniquity.” (Job 36:10) Why God’s Correction Matters • It proves His love and fatherly care (Proverbs 3:11-12; Hebrews 12:5-6). • It safeguards us from lingering in sin (Psalm 19:12-13). • It aligns us with His perfect will and prepares us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Ways God Sends Correction • The written Word—daily reading exposes wrong thoughts and actions. • The inner prompting of the Holy Spirit (John 16:8,13). • Wise believers who speak truth in love (Proverbs 27:5-6). • Life circumstances that curb pride and redirect our steps (Psalm 119:67,71). Practical Steps to Listen Well Each Day 1. Start with an open Bible and open heart. • Pray Psalm 139:23-24, inviting God to search and reveal. 2. Hold Scripture above personal feelings. • When conviction comes, accept God is right and I am wrong (Romans 3:4). 3. Respond immediately. • Confess, repent, and adjust behavior before the moment passes (1 John 1:9). 4. Welcome godly voices. • Seek mentors who love Christ and will speak candidly (Proverbs 27:17). 5. Keep a “soft” spirit. • Guard against defensiveness; cultivate humility (James 4:6). 6. Record lessons. • A journal helps trace patterns of correction and growth (Deuteronomy 8:2). 7. Practice obedience in small things. • Faithfulness in little readies the heart for bigger course changes (Luke 16:10). 8. Test every impression by Scripture. • The Spirit never contradicts the Word (Isaiah 8:20). 9. Celebrate progress. • Thank God for each step of refinement (Philippians 1:6). Fruit of Heeding Correction • Deeper fellowship with God (John 14:23). • Increased wisdom and discernment (Proverbs 15:31-32). • Peaceful righteousness replacing turmoil (Hebrews 12:11). • Useful service to others (2 Timothy 2:21). Cautions to Avoid • Ignoring repeated warnings—hardening the heart leads to calamity (Proverbs 29:1). • Comparing obedience with others—each servant answers to the Master (Romans 14:4). • Mistaking condemnation for conviction—God corrects to restore, not to destroy (Romans 8:1; Revelation 3:19). Encouragement for the Journey Every correction, no matter how uncomfortable, is evidence that the Lord is actively shaping us into the likeness of His Son (Romans 8:29). Yielding to His voice today positions us for greater joy and usefulness tomorrow. |
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