Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray. (Proverbs 10:17)

Scripture is very clear on the need for us to be open to correction. The consequences can be disastrous when we refuse to heed God’s call to change our ways.

Some translations of Proverbs 10:17, such as the NLT & the NKJV read: “…those who ignore correction will go astray.”

Exactly a month ago today, the DWOD for Aug. 09 included this stern warning: “Whoever remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed—without remedy.” (Proverbs 29:1)

In other words, the person who ignores correction is the one who will either go astray or be destroyed.

However, the NIV translation gives another consequence that affects not only the person who is disobedient, but also others in their sphere of influence.

A father may think that his refusal to receive correction and refrain from an addictive behaviour affects only his life, but the sad fact is that he can lead his children astray. Those children who are led astray can then in turn lead their children astray…and a generational curse is handed down through the family line.

Jesus certainly has some stern words for those who lead others astray, doesn’t he? Try this one for size:

“Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” (Matthew 18:6)

Unfortunately, leaders who were unwilling to take correction have indeed led others astray and not only experienced disastrous consequences themselves, but also caused immeasurable harm to their followers.

We have seen distinguished ministers of the gospel fall to disgraceful lows over and over again. It is uncanny how when the true story of what happened emerges, there is always one common thread.

God had graciously intervened through another believer or leader and offered correction to the offending leader, giving them an opportunity to repent and stem the flow of disasters that were sure to follow. Yet, in every case that I am aware of, the person in question chose to willfully disregard the wise counsel and dismiss it as unnecessary interference in their personal lives.

Thankfully, by the grace of God, some have since repented and been restored to ministry. Others have simply sunk into oblivion as a result, taking many others down with them.

Dear DWOD friend, as you keep advancing toward your destiny, you will need to be corrected from time to time. This is why you need to surround yourself with wise counsellors who can see where you might need correction.

A number of years ago, when I entered into a mentorship relationship with a leader, one of the first things he said to me was: “Jeeva, when I see you doing something that might be hurtful to you or to those who follow you, do you want me to point it out to you or just keep it to myself?”

Duh! That was a no-brainer, wasn’t it? I was so thankful when he would gently offer me correction whenever I needed it.

Please keep this in mind: Leaders fall uncorrected, but stand corrected.

One of the wisest choices you could ever make in life is to find yourself a mentor who is willing to offer correction. You will be amazed how this critical step accelerates you into your destiny.