The Righteous Path
Proverbs 10:17
Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.
How do you respond to the correction of the Holy Spirit?
A humble and teachable spirit is a demonstrable fruit when we walk with the Lord. When we acknowledge that we are not perfect, and fall short of God’s glory, the sanctification process of the Holy Spirit begins. When Jesus left the earth, he sent the Holy Spirit to be our helper and counselor (John 14:26). His role as sanctifier is to direct and correct us, but we all have a choice to heed his instruction. The Bible warns that those who disregard correction will lead themselves and others astray. When we are unwilling to accept correction, we will find ourselves in a place of complacency that may lead us down a path to destruction.
God, in his mercy and grace, not only gave his Spirit to rely on but also placed other believers in our lives. It may be a pastor, an elder, a small group leader, a mentor, or even a brother or sister in Christ who can offer biblical wisdom. He created us to be in a relationship with one another to encourage and reprove when necessary. This relationship will allow us to hold each other accountable and help identify the weaknesses in our lives. If we willingly accept correction, we find ourselves on the right path.
Our Father in Heaven instructs, corrects, and disciplines us just as a loving parent disciplines their child. He pursues us because he loves us and wants us to live to our fullest potential for his kingdom. He created us for a divine purpose. We will not reach this goal if we fail to obey his lead. We must be accepting of the necessary reproof in our lives if we want to look more like Jesus and be the best example for those around us.
Who do you turn to for advice or instruction?
Do you willingly accept reproof, or are you in open rebellion?
Father God, help me to heed your word and follow your instruction. Give me wisdom and discernment and guide me on the right path. I pray that your voice will be louder than any other. I want to be led by you to lead others by my example. Please surround me with people who will boldly speak truth in love. I pray for those who struggle to heed your word that you would humble their hearts to receive direction and submit in obedience. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture References: Proverbs 6:23; Proverbs 15: 10; Matthew 7:24-27; Luke 11:28; Hebrews 12:25
