-November 9, 2022-
Good morning, happy Wednesday,
“Rebuke is more effective for a wise man than a hundred blows on a fool.”
(Proverbs 17:10).
Two of the purposes and uses of the Word of God is to reprove and correct. Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” God’s goal in reproving or rebuking us is always restoration not punishment. He does use punishment at times to awaken us and get our attention. There are consequences to our words and actions.
The word rebuke is defined as, “Express sharp disapproval or criticism of someone because of their behavior or actions.” The less strong word is reproof, which means, “An expression of blame or disapproval.” The difference between reproof and rebuke are a matter of degrees. Whether we are reproved or rebuked, we need to accept it and change our behavior. God uses both to correct us and restore us. Oftentimes, God uses others to rebuke us for our good. It is part of the chastisement or discipline process.
Being rebuked is needed at times in our lives to straighten us up. It is never easy or pleasant, but it is profitable for our spiritual lives. How we react to it is what is most important. When we react incorrectly in the flesh, we tend to get angry, fight against it, blame others, try to justify ourselves, or quit and give up. These show our reaction is in our flesh. Instead we must react in the Spirit, showing repentance, humility, and acceptance. The goal as I said is always restoration. This makes the rebuke effective. It shows our wisdom and maturity when we handle it correctly.
Proverbs 15:31-32 says, “The ear that hears the rebukes of life will abide among the wise. He who destains instruction despises his own soul, but he who heeds rebuke gets understanding.” We all make mistakes, we fail, and we sin. Rebuke is thus very important in our growth and restoration. Paul rebuked Peter for his hypocrisy in not eating with Gentile believers when the Jewish believers were present but doing so only when they were not.
Thank God for godly spouses, elders, and friends, and even bosses that rebuke us when it is needed. It means they care enough for us to do what is best for us, even when it is hard for them and for us. Love must always prevail. We don’t need people to flatter us, but to help us. We need to hear God’s voice and take it from His hand. Hebrews 12:11 says, “Now no chastening (or discipline) seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless afterwards it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”
Have a blessed day even in being reproved or rebuked and thank God for it and learn from it. Stay safe and healthy.
In humbling our ourselves before God,
Dean
Dean Allen's Daily Devotional 