"Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses." We tend to hear what we want to hear, even if an enemy is the only one that will say it. A friend's advice, no matter how painful, is much better.-Proverbs 27:6 (Commentary taken from Life Application Study Bible/NIV)
Nobody likes to be rebuked. It's not fun, it's humbling, and it's embarrassing. But often necessary. It always makes me feel weak and disappointed in myself but it's also a jolt back to reality when we are misguided in our perceptions and endeavors. I think about the pastor here in Florida that is planning to burn the Quran today and I pray that somehow, someone will change his mind. He would not be a coward to back down from that plan; he would be smart. I hope a friend that He trusts in the Lord has been able to reach him and lead him to clearer vision. I trust he has a heart to follow God but our minds can be so easily misled...that's why we require rebukes. We are all flesh; we are not supernatural beings and we still make mistakes. I know it must break the heart of God for us to continue being so head strong in wrong doings yet He constantly shows mercy and great patience with us. What an amazing God we have for a daddy!!
Whatever you are faced with today, I hope you will not be narrow minded and think only of your own benefit. Please think of others and how your decisions might affect someone else. Learn from others mistakes too; be observant and listen because their situation could just as easily be your own. Surprise some folks in your world...show patience and love to them. Be a true friend and when it comes time for a rebuke, swallow hard and breathe a sigh of relief that it's coming from one that cares for you and wants to see you be a success. God loves you too much to watch you walk down a destructive road without calling your name and urging you to turn around.