For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11 (ESV)
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 competent, equipped for every good work. 2 timothy 3:16-17 (ESV)
King David in the Old Testament was known as a man after God’s own heart. But while he was at the height of his power, he allowed his passions to get the better of him. He used his position as king to commit adultery with another man’s wife and have that man murdered in order to take the wife for himself (2 Samuel 12:1-15). There are many different lessons we can unpacked from this story however, I want to focus on how David reacted when receiving correction from Nathan the prophet.
When Nathan confronted David about his sin of adultery and murder involving Bathsheba and her late husband Uriah, David could have had Nathan killed due to his position and power as king. In times past, many of those in authority in the Bible did just that, kill or seek to kill anyone who confronted them with the truth. Fortunately, in this story, David listened to Nathan the prophet and repented of his sins.
Listening to Bible stories we sometimes try to compare ourselves to those in Bible times. We like to think we wouldn’t fall into the same traps they did back then and we’d tell ourselves, we would be so much better in making decisions. In addition we’d also would think we’re much better at receiving correction from others than those during Bible times. However, when comparing, we tend to forget we’re living hundreds of years in the future, looking back on the decisions they were making in real time, as they lived out their lives.
So, the question today is, how do we receive correction? How do we receive correction coming from individuals who are sharing God’s truth, based on His Holy Word, and not based on worldly ideals? Will we choose to listen wisely or, will we push back stating, we have the answers and, we’ve got this! In this 21st century, it can definitely be challenging to listen to, as well as follow Godly counsel. There are many who will scoff at God’s wisdom and, they will encourage others to do the same.
On the flip side of this question, we should also ask ourselves, how are we in giving Godly counsel to others? Will we appear arrogant, feeling others should listen to what we have to say? Or, would we be caring and genuinely concerned to see a positive change take place in the other person?
As stated earlier, King David, chose to listen to Nathan the Prophet and repent of his sins. May we too seek to listen to wise Godly counsel and apply those truths as we live out our lives. And may we be ready and able to give Godly counsel to others, whenever needed.
Blessings,
Angélique
To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com
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