JUNE 6 – The Power of Correction and Trusting in God’s Timing
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 17:10-11; Psalm 65; Exodus 10-11
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“A rebuke goes deeper into a man of understanding than a hundred blows into a fool. An evil man seeks only rebellion, and a cruel messenger will be sent against him.” —Proverbs 17:10-11
“You visit the earth and water it; you greatly enrich it; the river of God is full of water; you provide their grain, for so you have prepared it. You water its furrows abundantly, settling its ridges, softening it with showers, and blessing its growth.” —Psalm 65:9-10
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Have you ever been corrected or rebuked by someone? Maybe a parent, teacher, or even a friend? It doesn’t always feel good, right? Proverbs tells us that for someone who is wise, a rebuke has the power to go deep and change them for the better. But for a fool, it’s like hitting a brick wall—nothing changes. Correction is a tool that helps us grow, but only if we’re willing to listen and learn.
In Exodus 10-11, we see God continuing to show His power through Moses as He brings more plagues on Egypt. Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, is repeatedly warned, but he refuses to listen to God’s instructions. Each time God sends a plague, Pharaoh’s heart grows harder. Despite the repeated warnings, Pharaoh stubbornly rebels against God, and eventually, the consequences of his rebellion become more severe.
God was giving Pharaoh time and opportunities to repent, but Pharaoh chose to harden his heart. In contrast, the psalmist in Psalm 65 reminds us that God is a God of abundance, who waters and nourishes the earth. He is patient with us, and He gives us everything we need, even in the waiting. When we trust in God’s timing, we recognize that He is working behind the scenes, preparing something good for us, just like He prepared the earth with rain to make it flourish.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Listening to Correction: Proverbs says that a wise person accepts correction, but a fool ignores it. How do you usually respond when someone tries to correct you?
2. God’s Patience and Timing: In Exodus, Pharaoh repeatedly rejects God’s commands, and the consequences get worse. How can you learn to trust God’s plans for your life, knowing that He’s always working in His perfect timing?
3. Nourishment in God: Psalm 65 speaks of how God nourishes and enriches the earth. Are there areas in your life where you need God’s spiritual nourishment and growth? How can you seek God to help you grow in your relationship with Him?
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BOTTOM LINE
God patiently corrects us to help us grow, but like Pharaoh, we can resist if our hearts aren’t willing to listen. When we trust His timing and grace, we can rest knowing He’s always working for our good.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your patience and for the times You’ve corrected me with love. Help me to have a heart that listens to Your guidance, that I may grow in wisdom and understanding. I know You are working in my life, even when I can’t see it, and I trust Your perfect timing. Please nourish my heart with Your Word, and help me to grow in my relationship with You every day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.