2 Corinthians 7:8 –
I am not sorry that I sent that severe letter to you, though I was sorry at first, for I know it was painful to you for a little while.
Have you ever said something that was critical of someone’s actions? You did not do this as gossip, but said it directly to them! In the world of instant communications that happens more often than we want. How many times have you pressed the “send” button only to regret it moments later? Paul didn’t have seconds, he had hours or maybe days between writing and sending this letter, and he still regretted “pressing send”!
As we read this letter we find that the critical note was actually welcomed and acted upon, which in turn made Paul glad he sent it. How many times have your notes come across judgmental and were not received well? One nice thing about notes is you don’t always get the harsh reaction, but it may still happen. One of the most common reactions is indignation and a quick retort. Then everyone digs in for a “holier than thou” battle.
Matthew 7:3 gets tossed about where people always have to mention the “plank” in your eye. That chapter tends to get exercised well in these situations as you will get verse 1 also bantered about where we “judge not lest ye be judged!” (Funny how the King James Version is used here, but that’s another discussion.) We all tend to put our defenses up as soon as our character is attacked but maybe we should look at another behavior! If someone criticizes our actions, then we should stop, say nothing and reflect on their comment.
Often times we will see there is truth in their words and it will illuminate something that needs correcting. Also, we should look at our approach if we are delivering that message. We should be prepared to be vomited on verbally. If this happens, don’t get into a contest of wits, but be prepared to accept their criticism also. One of the most difficult part of any relationship, be it casual or intimate, is correcting the others. I have mixed feelings about correcting others, on the one hand I get the “if I don’t say it, no one will” attitude. But on the other I am concerned that I am worse off and should not “throw stones in glass houses.” I think the key here is learn to “dish it out” gently, but also “take it” graciously.