Don't be Offended by Correction

Scripture: “It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.” Then the disciples came and said to him, “Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this saying?” He answered, “Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be rooted up. Let them alone; they are blind guides. And if the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit.” Matthew 15:11-14

Observation: Jesus offends the Pharisees in an exchange about traditions versus compliance with the law. In addressing this, he makes a clear statement - that God is not offended by failing to wash our hands when we eat, but rather by our words when they do not align to God's love and commands. However, he follows that up with something more about the Pharisees ... that those that a failing to follow God's commands are like plants that will be uprooted - they are blind and therefore are to be ignored.

This is a warning to all leaders. However, part of the warning is in the metaphor itself and in the transition from between the discussions. The disciples note that the Pharisees were offended by Jesus' teaching, and he immediately relates them to plants being tended by God. This is similar to other times Jesus uses this metaphor. Bad plants - weeds - will be torn out. Good plants, however, will be tended and pruned.

In other words, if someone is willing to be corrected by God and accept his correction, we will then be cared for.

Application: True blessing from God is first received when we have allowed God to correct us first. God has needed to correct me often! So I wonder today: Where is the next area God will correct me, and how should I be listening for that correction?

I know some of the answers, simply because I still struggle with sin and that is ALWAYS a place to find need of correction. However, are there are broad elements of my life where God is going to correct me, and if I align to his correction he will bless me? I suspect one area is my pride. I remain proud of accomplishments and position, and I do seek to correct my thoughts in this area. I need to also correct my actions. It isn't enough to not think proudly, I must act with true humility. I must serve others first, and know that is my true purpose on earth every day. This is an area I'm sure God wishes to work in my heart, and I will look for his correction.

Prayer: Lord, I am too proud - I know this. I am open to how you will guide me in this area. I do not wish to defile you by what comes out of my mouth - by what is in my heart - so I am open to a changed heart so I may better serve you and your people in your world at this time. Amen.