Try to be more open in dealings with others

“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another, Proverbs 27:17

How do you handle correction? By taking offense? By hearing it as rejection? By getting defensive? All of us need people who will be honest with us because we’re easily blinded by our egos. When God sends somebody to correct you it’s because he loves you. He only does that to those he values.

“If you are not disciplined … then you are illegitimate children and not true sons” Hebrews 12:8. Check your credentials.

So, how do you handle correction? By killing the messenger? By making sure he or she never gets to you again? By keeping score and saying, “People don’t understand or appreciate me?” Your mind needs to be sharpened constantly, so stay open to those whom God sends to do it.

Accountable people always exhibit four qualities: 1) Vulnerability. They’re capable of knowing when they’re wrong and admitting it – even before they’re confronted. 2) Teachability. They’re willing to hear, quick to learn and always open to counsel. 3) Availability. They’re accessible. They don’t avoid you. 4) Honesty. They hate anything phony and are committed to the truth regardless of how much it hurts.

“That’s a high standard,” you say. You’re right. It’s a standard pride can’t handle and fragile egos won’t tolerate. There’s something in each of us that would rather look good than be good.

So when God sends people into your life who love you enough to tell you the truth – try to be more open.