Faithful are the wounds of a friend… - Proverbs 27:6
Recently my feelings got hurt by the words of someone dear to me—not because they were rude or disrespectful, but because they saw something in me that needed correction—and they shared it with me, as kindly, but firmly as possible. Even still, their criticism was hard to hear. It stung.
I could have let that conversation dissolve me into tears and self-condemnation. But instead, I found myself pressing close to God and asking for His perspective. Was this criticism accurate? And, if so, how could I begin to make the changes to correct it?
We all need people in our lives that can be trusted to call us out when we drift into attitudes, behaviors or habits that aren’t healthy or are not pleasing to God. It’s too easy to overlook such things about ourselves. Yes, it hurts to have anyone bring something negative to light—especially when you want that person’s respect and admiration. But, what a gift to have someone love you so much that they are not willing to let you continue down a path that doesn’t serve you well—someone that cares enough to speak up and have the tough conversation with you. The only question then is whether or not you have the courage to set the sting of their words aside and open your heart to change.
CLOSING PRAYER
God, keep my heart open to being the best version of myself with your help and continue to surround me with loving people who can speak honest words of truth into my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.