Correction is a part of everyday life. I think that we are prepared as children to receive correction from our parents no matter how we may feel. Correction, to me, is simply a part of actually training up a child in the way he/ she should go as well as, not sparing the rod. In other words, we learn as children to take correction, and we better stop crying! Thanks: Dad, Mom, Grandpa, Grandma, and all of those who helped to establish an understanding of correction in my life.  

However, I also feel that receiving correction from others is something that we will grow into appreciating. Although, as a child I didn’t like the idea of being corrected, especially as it involved the rod, I have grown into appreciating it. I appreciate the correction received from my parents, because it gave me instruction; taught me limitations and self-discipline, obedience, as well as provided me with the knowledge to know right from wrong.

The (Amplified Bible, AMP) bible says that, “For the Lord disciplines and corrects those whom He loves, And He punishes every son whom He receives and welcomes [to His heart].” Hebrews 12:6 AMP. God, just like our parents disciplines and corrects us because of His love for wanting to see us do well. Even in my own journey of faith, I didn’t know how to accept or even take correction because I thought people were just being critical. However, I can truly say that in growing spiritually and becoming more mature as a Christian adult, I thank God for Godly correction. Godly correction is like the staff and the rod of God recorded in the 23 Psalm which states that God; protects me, corrects me and directs me with the rod and staff. As, a pastor, this resonates to me the importance of providing correction, in love, to the sheep. Sheep may not like to be corrected, but the pastor understands the importance of caring enough for the sheep to give them Godly, guidance and direction for protection.

Godly correction comes through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Godly correction in providing pastoral care should never be based, only upon what we feel is necessary to say but should be, God guided. So, I thank God for providing; direction for protection, though correction.

Pastor Desmond