I remember my well my desires for freedom.  I would echo things I had heard on movies like, “I have to get out of this town” and “I need to spread my wings”.  As high school was coming to a close, I began to get really irritated with my parents. I never really spoke it out loud to them, but in my mind I had somehow been convinced that they were standing in the way of this freedom I longed for.  

Up to this point I had pretty much taken the path of least resistance by doing whatever they said.  Not because I wanted to obey, but because I didn’t like conflict.  I had allowed my mind to be convinced that heir instructions were shackles and chains.  I quickly found a way out right after graduation and moved in with a friend. 

Shortly thereafter, I realized that freedom wasn’t the result of not having any instruction but instead the result of following good instruction.  I noticed that the easiest part of life had come to a close.  I was now responsible for myself and all the bills, chores, etc.   There were so many things I didn’t know how to do because my pride had kept me from learning, and Google was nowhere to be found 

If we look closely at today’s passage there are two parts contrasted:

• Ignoring instruction
• Receiving Correction

What’s the challenge with receiving instruction and correction?  It’s simple. PRIDE

My pride had taken me to a place where I despised myself and was unwilling to listen.  There are many people around us every day who have the ability to share some great instruction and offer correction to us.  We all have the opportunity to be blessed by these individuals if our pride is put away. 

Freedom FROM instruction And correction leads to bondage; not freedom.  We need our brothers and sisters in Christ speaking the truth in love to us (both instruction and correction) so that we may grow in the obedience that leads to true freedom. 

Reflection

How are you at receiving instruction?  

Is your first reaction, “I already know how to do this” or “I am so thankful he is showing me how to…”?

How are you receiving correction?

Is your first reaction, “who is she to correct me”?

Mediate on this verse. Confess your pride as ask God to humble and grow you. 

Prayer

Father, your instruction is priceless. We delight in the law of Your word.  Humble us where necessary that we may grow in obedience to You and experience the true freedom You give. We thank You for all that you put I our path to instruct and correct us.  May we be Your humble, ever-growing servants in Jesus’ name, Amen!