Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.
—Proverbs 27:6
It’s human nature to embrace what we want to hear. We’d all rather accept a positive comment than criticism. Criticism may be constructive, but when we hear it, we get defensive. Although we might not admit it, the idea we are wrong about something wounds our pride.
Proverbs 27:6 reminds us that wounded pride can be a good thing if the wounds are inflicted with love. It also reminds us where this type of wound often comes from: a true friend. This verse’s writer makes a clear distinction between friends who tell us what we want to hear versus those who express what we need to hear. Those who consistently stroke our egos are not friends, but enemies.
No one likes constant criticism, so it’s easy to say this characterization is harsh. Don’t be quick to dismiss it, though. Although flattery and kindly worded untruths feel good at first, they’ll harm you in the end. Eventually, you’ll learn the truth, and by then it may come from someone who wants to use the truth to tear you down. Worse, by then your heart may be too hardened toward that particular issue for you to want to change.
When a friend tells you the truth about a wrong you’ve committed, it’ll hurt at first. You might defend yourself and believe you’re right. However, if you ask God for discernment, He may have something valuable to show you. Listening to kindly meant words that hurt can make you a stronger, more grounded believer.
Is there someone in your life you need to listen to today? What’s he or she trying to say? Go to this person, and be open to his or her words.
Comments