When we become offended or defensive because of God’s truth and the conviction it brings in our life, whether directly from His word or from others around us, our self-centered, carnal nature surfaces. God’s word can uncover the deepest, and darkest parts of our wretched humanism and trust me, it hurts.
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)
Christians should be aware and cautious of this factor because if we truly believe in God, we should also know that He uses His word and fellow siblings in Christ to teach, correct, convict, and edify us. We must remember that His truth really is meant to help us grow in Him, and as stubborn, forgetful people, many times tough love is the only way to knock some sense into us. Just remember, it’s only tough because we make it that way. The more we let go of our imperfect nature, the more we can humbly submit to God’s perfect nature and wisdom for us, which will manifest in our lives.
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV)
Lord, I pray you may keep me humble and eager to receive your correction and truth with open arms, so that through humble submission, study, understanding and application of your truth, my life may be glorifying and honouring to you alone.
