Read Proverbs 27 Friendship and Commendation

Open rebuke is better Than love carefully concealed. Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. (Proverbs 27:5-6 NKJV)

One of my friends resided these verses that have never left me in my attitude towards been reproof. It reminds us of Nathan rebuked David by way of a parable. Jesus rebuked His disciples of little faith. Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. (Luke 17:3) Paul rebuked Peter over the issue of Gospel when he withdrew himself eating with the Gentiles. Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. (II Timothy 4:2)

Open rebuke is to expose or uncover with the aim to instruct and correct for the edification of the offender. Aim at the good of the recipient at our heart. Doing it rightly will find favour (Proverbs 28:23) Love in the heart has courage enough to show itself in reproving them for what they say and do amiss. It is better than suppressing it because of the fear of losing the relationship in the name of secret love.

The kisses of an enemy may come in flattery words are deceitful. The example of Judas did that to Jesus. Those with ulterior motive act in love is a form of manipulation, flattery is setting a trap (Proverbs 29:5).

Receiving it with a good attitude and gratitude to God. Listen - not defensive, challenge, and question them of motives. Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover to the ear of the one who listens. (Proverbs 25:12). He who keeps instruction is in the way of life, But he who refuses correction goes astray. (Proverbs 10:17) As a wise man Rebuke is more effective for a wise man Than a hundred blows on a fool. (Proverbs 17:10)

Prayer: Lord, thank You of Your love for me this special day I was born. For those You have brought along my path. Many have commended me highly, respectfully and lovingly. Yet those who reproof me love me as much and I am forever grateful to You for these are channels meant for my growth. Empower me to speak the truth in Your love even to those whom You would have me to love.

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