Acknowledging Reproof

Pacific Press Publishing Association · Mountain View, California · Apr 2, 1912

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 39, No. 14.

Acknowledging Reproof

Acknowledging Reproof.—Whether a reproof benefit us depends less on how it is given than how it is received. It may come as sharp and keen as the thrust of the stiletto, or it may fall with the brutal force of a bludgeon. It may be given in words as soft as oil, and as sweet as honey. But it is not for us, if we are the wrong-doers, to become offended over the manner of the reproof, or to stop to analyze the motive in giving it. If we do, we lose the blessing. Are we guilty of the fault reproved? Let us treat that fault as our enemy, and let the blow fall upon that. Sometimes we do this sullenly, resentfully, and lose the blessing. Better to school the heart and mind, for one's own soul's sake, and for others' good, to acknowledge reproof promptly, and crush out any enmity which might arise from our failing to place ourselves on the right side. It is ever a promising characteristic in a young man or woman to take reproof and acknowledge its justice. It ought to be so in older ones as well. By so much is the heart brought into tune with all righteousness.