by Justin Morton
No one likes to be corrected. Recently, I have been working with the boys on their baseball swings. They have always been pretty good hitters, but I wanted to help them make a few small adjustments to improve even more. We have worked on this several times a week over the past couple of months. While I do believe some of those corrections are beginning to pay off, I will admit, it has not been easy. There are times when the boys do not want to hear what I am saying, not because of how I say it, but because of why I say it. Even when correction is helpful and for their benefit, it is still uncomfortable to receive. The truth is, nobody enjoys being corrected.
For many people, correction feels like rejection or failure. When someone points out a flaw or mistake, it is easy to assume we are being judged. However, correction is not meant to tear us down but to build us up. Correction is less about highlighting what is wrong and more about guiding us toward what is better.
Scripture reminds us of this truth. The wise man said, “Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy” (Proverbs 27:5-6). In other words, it is better for someone to speak honestly to us even when it is uncomfortable, than to remain silent and allow us to continue in error. When a friend offers correction, it may sting and be uncomfortable, but those “wounds” are valuable because they come from a heart that genuinely cares for our physical and spiritual well-being.
The Bible consistently teaches that correction is beneficial. Yet many of us resist it. When a friend tries to correct us for our own good, we become defensive. Instead of listening and reflecting on the correction, we react in frustration or anger. The danger in this response is that we may miss an opportunity for growth. As Proverbs 15:31-32 says, “The ear that listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise. Whoever ignores instruction despises himself, but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence” (Proverbs 15:31-32). Accepting correction is not a sign of weakness, but instead it is a mark of wisdom.
Correction is not something to be avoided but something to embrace. As we strive to walk closely with God, correction helps shape our character and aligns our lives with His will. When we reject wise correction, we hinder our own growth. Proverbs 12:1 puts it plainly: “He who hates reproof is stupid” (Proverbs 12:1).
So the next time someone offers you loving correction, resist the urge to become defensive and angry. Instead, pause and listen carefully. You may discover that what feels uncomfortable in the moment is actually a blessing toward continued growth and transformation.