“The Lord corrects those he loves, as parents correct a child of whom they are proud” ( Proverbs 3:12).

When children first join school and begin taking lessons, they make many mistakes. Yet, to their delight, for most, there is always a teacher ready to correct them. Many would be disappointed if their work was never corrected. Much as they love the red ticks in their books, the cross marks are also appreciated. They show that someone is paying attention to their efforts and helping them improve.

Just as children have teachers and parents to guide them, we too have a Father who lovingly corrects us. Proverbs 3:12 says: “For whom the Lord loves He reproves, Even as a father corrects the son in whom he delights”. Parents are also encouraged: “Correct your son, and he will give you comfort; He will also delight your soul” ( Proverbs 29:17). The Word of God itself is given, among other reasons, to correct us: “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness” ( 2 Tim 3:16).

God uses many ways to correct us. Sometimes He sends a Nathan into our lives—someone who tactfully points out a matter we had been blind to ( 2 Samuel 12). At other times, correction may come openly and directly, as when Jesus rebuked Peter: “Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns” ( Mathew 16:23).

Like children in school, we should not only expect correction but also appreciate it. Correction is a sign of God’s love and concern for us. As Scripture reminds us, “For the LORD disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child” ( Hebrews 12:6).

Prayer today: Lord Father God of Abraham, maker of heaven and earth, as you correct those whom you love to save them from ruin, today I pray that I may welcome your correction in my life for my good. This I pray in Jesus’s name.