Aug
25
2012
A Prayer for a Teachable Correctable Heart
Whoever heeds a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise. Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding. (Prov. 15:31-32) The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin. (Prov. 10:8) The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice. (Prov. 12:15)
Dear Lord Jesus, reading through the book of Proverbs recently reminded me how many verses about staying teachable, receiving correction, and loving discipline I’ve underlined over the course of the years. I hope I’ve become more humble and non-defensive than in the days of my youth, but I know I can still bristle up and blame shift, make excuses and be self-righteous with the best of them.
Because you are such a welcoming and merciful Savor, I own, grieve, and repent of my pride, Lord Jesus. I’m not sure why, but I’ve been a little hair-trigger touchy of late. It’s been easier for me to be more critical of others than to own my own bad attitude. I’d like to blame it on the putrid atmosphere and biting banter of a political year, but the issue is within me, not without. I’m just thankful you are so understanding and kind. Even as I repent, hear my pleas…
Jesus, help me anticipate and welcome feedback from my spouse about my attitude, choices, and excesses. Help me to hear your voice in things my children may want to or need to share with me about the past and the present. Help me to cultivate friendships in which growing in grace is just as important as the fun stuff we choose to do. Don’t let me ignore concerns and corrections from mentors, protégés, neighbors, even angels you send.
Help me not just to read the Bible but to have the Bible constantly reading me—exposing my sin and brokenness, and revealing more and more and more of the riches of the gospel. There’s no way I’ll make “my home among the wise” without having my heart at home in your mercy, grace, and peace.
Lord Jesus, it’s because you made yourself of no reputation, becoming sin for me on the cross, that I don’t have to live for my own reputation. Because I’m no longer guilty or condemned, I can live in the freedom of convictability, teachability, and humility. Help me, Jesus, help me. So very Amen I pray, in your great and gracious name.
Categories: Prayer