Reproof, Advantage of
Good reproof cleanses character like fuller’s earth removes spots when dry.
The reproof of a good man resembles fuller's earth: it not only removes the spots from our character, but it rubs off when it is dry. Wilkinson.
Reproof in Christian preaching emphasizes the loving correction meant to guide believers toward holiness and growth (Proverbs 27:5-6). It often uses images of cleansing and healing to illustrate how reproof removes moral stains and exposes hidden faults, encouraging a humble and grateful reception rather than resentment (Hebrews 12:11).
Reproof, Giving
Reprove minor faults gently, not with excessive harshness or force.
To reprove small faults with undue vehemence is as absurd as if a man should take a great hammer because he saw a fly on his friend's forehead.
Reproof, Hating
Hating reproof reveals deeper hidden spiritual sores needing healing.
If you cannot bear to be handled, it is a proof you have ugly sores, which are not the less dangerous for being skinned over. Henry.
Reproof, Obligation for
Appreciate friends who overcome difficulties to lovingly reprove you.
Considering how many difficulties a friend has to surmount before he can bring himself to reprove me, I ought to be very much obliged to him. J. Foster.
Reproof, Receiving
People often resent reproof instead of resenting the faults revealed.
Lais broke her looking-glass because it showed the wrinkles on her face. Many men are angry with them that tell them their faults; when they should be angry only with the faults that are told them. Venning.
The President Was A Fool
Those who are filled with Heaven's wisdom will submit to reason.
On one occasion Abraham Lincoln, to please a certain politician, issued a command to transfer certain regiments. When Secretary of War Edwin Stanton received the order, he refused to carry it out, saying the President was a fool. When Lincoln was told of this, he replied, "If Stanton said I'm a fool, then I must be, for he is nearly always right. I'll see for myself."
As the two men talked, the President quickly realized that his decision was a serious mistake, and without hesitation he withdrew it. A teachable, open spirit is often a major key is defusing conflict.
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To a power hungry tyrant of any age, appeasement only inflames
his lust for more power. Behavioral research has now demonstrated
this relationship between insecure, permissive parents and
violent, delinquent teenagers.
---James Dobson _Parenting isn't for Cowards_
Preaching, Reproving sin. Nathan reproving sin in high places
2 Samuel 12Bold reproofs awaken conscience more effectively than soft speeches.
May have cost him nights of pain and prayer to do it. Dogmatic message (v. 7) is truer and more tender than soft speeches that do not arouse conscience