GUARD YOUR FIVE SENSES

"Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise. Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding."

— Proverbs 15:31–32 (NIV)

Correction isn't rejection—it's love in action.

But to the prideful heart, any form of correction feels like an attack. Rather than receive it with humility, many plug their ears and turn away. They'd rather preserve their image than purify their soul. Yet Scripture makes it clear: the one who refuses correction chooses foolishness—and invites destruction.

God disciplines those He loves. To reject His correction is to reject His love.

The Ear That Rejects Correction Rejects Growth

You cannot grow in godliness without being corrected. Whether that correction comes through Scripture, the conviction of the Holy Spirit, a sermon, or a faithful friend—it is a gift, not a threat.

"Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you."

— Proverbs 9:8

The humble ear receives rebuke and becomes wiser. The proud ear refuses it—and stays stuck in immaturity. The more you reject correction, the less sensitive your conscience becomes. Over time, you grow hardened, defensive, and unreachable.

Modern Forms of Rejecting Correction

Refusing correction today can look subtle but is often rooted in pride or fear. It might look like:

Dismissing a sermon that convicts you

Avoiding people who challenge your decisions

Becoming angry or offended when confronted

Justifying sin by twisting Scripture

Surrounding yourself only with people who agree with you

Thinking you're "above" being taught by others

Correction is uncomfortable, but it's also crucial. The issue is not whether you'll be corrected—but how you'll respond.

The Dangers of a Hardened Ear

A person who continually rejects correction begins to walk the path of spiritual isolation and eventual destruction. Over time:

Sin goes unchallenged

Accountability disappears

Blind spots grow larger

Wisdom is replaced with self-reliance

The voice of God becomes faint

"Because they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord… they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, so they will eat the fruit of their ways."

— Proverbs 1:29–31

God doesn't correct to shame you—He corrects to shape you.

How to Guard Against a Rebellious Ear

1. Embrace Correction as a Blessing

Correction is proof that God is still working on you. Receive it with gratitude, not resentment.

(Hebrews 12:6 – "The Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastens everyone He accepts as His son.")

2. Examine Before Reacting

When corrected, resist the urge to argue. Take it to prayer. Ask God to show you what's true—even if it's uncomfortable.

(Psalm 139:23–24 – "Search me, God, and know my heart… see if there is any offensive way in me.")

3. Stay Teachable

No one graduates from needing correction. The wise stay soft-hearted and ready to learn at every stage of life.

(Proverbs 19:20 – "Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.")

4. Surround Yourself With Honest People

Invite godly friends, mentors, or leaders who will speak the truth in love. Don't push them away when they challenge you.

(Proverbs 27:5–6 – "Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted…")

5. Let Scripture Be Your Mirror

Allow the Word of God to examine and correct you daily. Don't just read it—let it read you.

(James 1:23–25 – "Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror…")

Prayer for a Teachable Heart

"Father, I confess that at times I've resisted Your correction. I've been quick to defend myself and slow to listen. Forgive my pride. Soften my heart. Teach me to welcome Your discipline and to see it as love. Let every rebuke shape me, every correction refine me, and every word You speak mold me into the image of Christ. In Jesus' name, Amen."