Embrace Correction

TGIF!! Today’s power scripture comes from Genesis 4:6-7. “And the Lord said to Cain, Why are you angry? And why do you look sad and depressed and dejected? If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin crouches at your door; its desire is for you, but you must master it”.     When Cain and Abel presented their offerings to God, scripture reveals that Abel’s gift was accepted yet Cain’s was not. Many have speculated why Cain was rejected. Was it because his offering was not his first or his best? What was his attitude and behavior when he presented his gifts to God? We can no doubt postulate many reasons but one thing is sure; Cain was given opportunity to make right whatever was wrong and he did not.He took the need for ‘correction’ and turned his inadequacy upon his brother Abel.
     This is an example of what to not do! Corrective criticism can be one of our greatest allies when we are seeking to improve our present state. When someone finds fault in what you have done or plan to do, don’t get angry or depressed. Even criticism that comes unsolicited or tainted with mockery can serve a vast purpose in elevating you to higher heights. Take heed at what is told to you. You may not like the message nor the messenger, but get the information and don’t lose the opportunity to fine tune your act. Sometimes great gifts come in ugly packaging.     Use to your advantage the criticism levied at you. For a knife to have a better cutting edge it must be ground against a rough surface. You cannot sharpen a knife on cotton, but it can be honed into a shiny winnowing cutting tool by simply repeatedly scraping it against a rock. The abrasion of the hard times and the decision to not give up are the tools that will make you sharp and ready for action. God may use your abrasive boss, teacher, spouse, in-law or grumpy neighbor to shape you into the precise tool he needs for his Kingdom. Embrace and rejoice in each new lesson.
     Every day is a good day it is up to us to make it a GREAT. Be blessed! Live Victoriously! Have a great weekend. See you on Monday. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn