The Value of Correction "Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge." Proverbs 19:25 As the 1963 college football season drew to a close, Alabama coach Bear Bryant faced a dilemma. He was known as a strict disciplinarian, but his star player, quarterback Joe Namath, had broken a team rule. Normally he would be suspended, but with the Sugar Bowl against highly ranked Mississippi coming up, that meant the team would be forced to use a lesser player and might not win the game. Most of Bryant’s staff opposed a suspension, but in the end, Bryant enforced the rule. Namath sat and watched as his teammates pulled out a 12-7 win without his help. The message was received loud and clear, not just by Namath but also by every other member of the team—no one is above the rules. The following season, Namath returned to the team and led a highly focused group to an undefeated regular season and the national championship. His public correction benefitted him, but its biggest impact was probably on his teammates. They received the benefit of the principle Paul relayed to Timothy: “Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear” (1 Timothy 5:20). When we correct those who do wrong, we provide a vital example to all who see it. If they see people sinning and getting by, they are tempted to follow their example. Solomon wrote, “Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil” (Ecclesiastes 8:10). For those whose hearts are devoted to wisdom, correction is not a grievous insult, but rather an opportunity to increase their understanding and avoid mistakes in the future. If we respond in pride and anger when we are reproved rather than with gratitude and humility, we are missing one of God’s great tools to impart wisdom to us. Today’s Proverbs Precept: One of the important reasons for enforcing discipline is the impact seeing correction has on others. By Paul Chappell
Posted on: Fri, 21 Jun 2013 21:42:10 +0000