“Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise rebuke to a listening ear.” – Proverbs 25:12
Several years ago, I joked with a friend when I said, “I’ve only made one mistake in my entire life…I once thought I was wrong.”
The truth is I have been wrong many times in my life (it actually happens quite often). But I do not think I would be wrong to say that you have also been wrong at times in your life. Thankfully, I have people in my life who gracefully tell me when I am wrong. My parents, my wife, my friends, and my co-workers have all found ways to call out my wrong — or rebuke me.
Listening to a wise rebuke helps us all become better people. When we listen to a wise rebuke from our spouses, then we become better spouses. When we listen to a wise rebuke from our friends, then we become better friends. A wise rebuke to a listening ear is like gold!
Earlier this week, I came across a story about John MacArthur (a well-known author, pastor and theologian) putting down Beth Moore (a fellow author, pastor and teacher). Regardless of his personal beliefs, John was wrong in making the comments and he was rebuked by many. Hopefully, he will listen to the wisdom in this rebuke and be better for it.
How are you listening to those who are speaking to you? How is helping you become a better person?
This Sunday, we will begin a new series in worship that will focus on our vision as a church. We are calling this series Focus and will be studying the book of Nehemiah together. I want to encourage you to read through the book of Nehemiah and study his story. This is an important series for our church and I hope you will make it a priority to be with us each week as we discover what God has in store for Royston First UMC.
Have a great week and I look forward to being with you in worship on Sunday at 8:45 and 11:00 AM!
Grace and peace,
Matt
Royston First United Methodist Church 