Handling Correction

Stubborn people who repeatedly refuse to accept correction will suddenly be broken and never recover.
Proverbs 29:1 TPT

Recently I received my evaluation at work.  I was elated about the increase in the salary (Thank You Jesus!!!), but not jubilant about the corrections shared. However, if I constantly refuse to accept the corrections, eventually, I will be in the unemployment line.  In relationships, whether it be with companion or confidant, if we consistently repudiate corrections (wise counsel), especially from the one who has our best interest in mind, it can cause separation in the relationship sometimes without notice.

No one jumps up for joy when receiving correction. None of us like it, but it is necessary for our advancement in being like Christ. The goal of correction is not to hurt but to help, to become better, not bitter.

We all handle corrections differently.  Maybe you can identify with one.

Deny – refuses to accept reality; avoids recognizing their own actions. They protect themselves by refusing to accept the truth (mayoclinic.org). “It never happened.”

Defensive – attempts to justify the action, makes up excuses, complains instead of taking responsibility. Yes, I did it, but it’s not my fault. Participation is being admitted, but responsibility for the action is being denied. “Here is why I did it and my actions are valid.”

Deflector – turns the story around to make it seem like you are at fault, taking attention and blame away from them to make you feel guilty. This emotional manipulation is called gaslighting. Gaslighting is emotional abuse where a person makes you doubt yourself or question your account of an incident.

Defiant – boldly resist any action different from theirs. They refuse to accept any correction because they are always right. Shows stubborn determination not to change their attitude despite obvious facts and wise counsel.

Most if not all of us may fit in one of these categories initially. However, if we do not advance to understand that corrections are for our development to experience the abundant life and become like Christ, we will be a casualty of this verse. Don’t be like Humpty Dumpty who sat on a wall (constantly refusing to accept correction). Ending up having a great fall; All the king’s horses and all the king’s men, couldn’t put Humpty Dumpty together again (never recover).

Prayer:  Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you and lead me along the path of everlasting life – Psalm 139:23-24 (NLT).