Living in Increase (Part 1) - Increase in UnderstandingSample

For the Purpose of Correction

Yesterday, we discussed how the Bible can be used for rebuke. Today, we will discuss how Scripture can be used to correct. Correction and rebuke go hand in hand. Rebuke exposes wrongdoing, and correction offers a plan of action in moving forward. As believers in Jesus, our capacity to grow directly correlates with how well we accept rebuke and correction.

As we read God’s Word and immerse ourselves in biblical community, we grow. The Bible says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). This not only implies that surrounding yourself with the right people makes you better, but those people also benefit from your presence and correction in love. The Bible also says that “the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). God’s Word corrects us because it is alive and active!

God’s Word, His Spirit at work within us, and His people all push us towards a life of discipline and correction, a life where we are being perfected and molded into the image of Christ. A life devoid of correction is full of untapped potential with no desire for sanctification or being purified. Jesus prayed to God the Father, “Sanctify them in the truth. Your word is truth” (John 17:17), so we know that true sanctification comes from His Word!

Ruby Washington

Action Step: Find a small group or group of friends to study the Bible together weekly.