Title

Vulnerable To the Truth

Scripture
Let the righteous strike me; it shall be a kindness. And let him rebuke me; it shall be as excellent oil; let my head not refuse it.
(Psalm 141:5)
Devotional
Proverbs 27:6 says it this way, “Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.”(1) Receiving correction is seldom if ever pleasant, it more than often hurts. Nevertheless, when it comes from God’s delegated authority, it is a kindness and an anointing. If we are blessed to have someone who loves us enough to tell us the hard truth, we are blessed indeed. If we receive righteous correction, we will graciously grow thereby. I have learned to become a bit leery of those who only offer accolades and those who frequently affirm themselves. It is not that we do not need or want approval and confirmation from those we love, but if that is all that we get, we may not be getting the truth. We have to present ourselves vulnerable, appreciating the benevolence, but willing and ready to receive the chastisement and rebuke of a righteous friend.

(1) Proverbs 27:6
Thought For The Night

“When regard for truth has been broken down or even slightly weakened, all things will remain doubtful.”  St. Augustine, (354-430) Aurelius Augustinus, also known as Augustine of Hippo.

 

Evening Text
Psalm 141:5: Let the righteous strike me; it shall be a kindness. And let him rebuke me; it shall be as excellent oil; let my head not refuse it.
Looking for Answers
Evening Study Guide
Defining: “Rebuke”: To firmly tell the truth, guide with certainty and correct resolutely, a synonym may be “tough love.”
 
Referencing: “Do not correct a scoffer, lest he hate you; Rebuke a wise man, and he will love you,” Proverbs 9:8.
 
Applying: If you have the God-given authority to rebuke, do so with humility and grace. If you have a God-given authority in your life, receive a rebuke as a kindness, and excellent oil; do not refuse it.