Finding Wisdom In Uncomfortable Places

Becoming strong and steady in our recovery requires that we keep on listening and learning from God's Word and from the experience, strength, and hope of others.  It is easy to be disrespectful of the experiences some share with us because we either dislike their personality or something in their journey differs from our experience.  In our arrogance we believe they are wrong in what they are saying and therefore have nothing to teach us.  The sad truth is that when we do this, we shut ourselves off from the valuable lessons their life experience could teach us.  

We need humility to listen to those who are newer to recovery than we are.  Sometimes the freshness of their message and the description of their struggle can shine a needed light on areas of our own heart that still need attention.  Their way of presenting may still be a bit rough around the edges but the truth at the core of their sharing might be just what we need to hear.

We also need to learn from those who offer constructive criticism and challenge the habits or attitudes they observe in us. Stinking thinking creeps up on us in so many areas.  The very fact that we are making fun of someone suggests there is some expression of a character defect in us that requires attention. 

It is never fun to be corrected. In fact, at the time it is always painful. But if we learn to obey by being corrected, we will do right and live at peace.  (Hebrews 12:11 CEV)

Today's invitation and challenge is to welcome the inconvenient or uncomfortable truth rather than to scorn it. 

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, I still have so much to learn.  Please help me to be teachable every day.  Give me eyes to see and ears to hear how You are speaking to me, particularly about things I find difficult to receive.  Amen

Video Encouragement and Prayer