Correct Me, If I’m Wrong

"Correct me, if I'm wrong," he said.

I'm not always sure if a person is sincere when I hear such a comment. After all, I have attempted to correct someone after hearing such a statement, but it did not turn out as I expected.

Here’s wisdom that applies:

Do not reprove a scoffer, lest he hate you,

Reprove a wise man, and he will love you.

--Proverbs 9:8

Have you ever felt that you needed to correct someone, but you were afraid of how they might react? That’s not uncommon. Many folks are non-confrontational, and with good reason. Relationships have become strained or broken when trying to correct another.

No one wants to face the scoffer when he is corrected. It might result in…

• Anger over being corrected.
• Denial of a problem and complete refusal of correction;
• Accusations cast toward the one correcting;
• Colorful speech in response;
• A dismissive attitude toward the one offering correction;
• Excuses to explain (i.e. justify) the behavior.

Because of the potential reaction of the scoffer, many folks prefer not to engage in the correction of anyone, even a wise man.

Yet, what is the outcome when there is no correction? If a person has done wrong but is not corrected, then there are two lies being told:

• The one who is in the wrong, but refuses correction, behaves as if everything is fine when it is not.
• The one who refrains from correcting another has hidden the truth out of fear.

Both lies avoid reality.

Solomon gives us insight into the possible outcome of correcting another person. However, we should not assume one thing or another. A gentle revelation of the truth with wise words may reveal a scoffer or a wise man. Either way, you have done right by not hiding the truth.

If you have revealed a scoffer, follow Solomon's advice and avoid correcting him/her in the future. Also remember, even wise men may not enjoy being corrected at first. It might take some time for the wise man to come around. So, don’t be too quick to judge.

Here are a couple of verses of Scripture that may help to encourage correction:

All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.

—2 Timothy 3:16-17

My brethren, if any among you strays from the truth and one turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.

—James 5:19-20

Always approach correction with the right attitude. Correction is not for gloating, setting the record straight or standing in judgment. Correction is for the benefit of another’s soul.

Also, when you are on the receiving end, i.e. the one being corrected, stop talking and listen. It might be that you ARE wrong. It might be that you NEED correction...for the good of your soul.

Be humble.

Be courageous.

Be wise.

Mark Stinnett

October 23, 2022