Psalm141:5

Psalm 141:5

The rebuke of the righteous

I love it! David is actually saying here that he would rather take a good punching from a friend who is righteous, than be drawn into the deceptions of the wicked! Imagine, someone close to us has noticed that we are being lured into a devious scheme or being enticed by a temptation and they come to see and call us out, and because we can’t see it they literally knock some sense into us! Not many Christians I know would take that kind of treatment on the chin, but the righteous man or woman who confronted us would actually be doing us a favour. David is right, their rebuke is a kindness. How often have we deferred passing judgement on another believer or used soothing words rather than a direct rebuke, just to avoid confrontation? The problem is, that most people don’t want to be rebuked, and they quickly refuse our advice and our judgement of their behaviour. It’s a strong man or woman who will listen, take the advice and change their ways. However, it will be to them, the oil of blessing. 

Oil was used to anoint priests and kings; it was also the customary treatment of an honoured guest at a banquet! Can we accept the rebuke of righteous friends with such humility and respect? David could, he clearly states that he would receive such reproaches as an honour and a blessing. It takes a wise and humble person to recognise their weaknesses, to receive the admonitions of others and to learn from their mistakes. Many are too proud to do this.

The background remains the evil deeds of the wicked. Anything that stops us from being drawn into their darkness and deceit is worth the effort and the shame. Which is worse, the shame of rebuke or the shame of being lured into sin? 

 

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