Naturally, I like to do my own thing.
I’m often tempted to go against the grain because at times I have a desire for rebellion. For someone who wants to do the opposite of what their told, the following verse is challenging to say the least:
Proverbs 15:3-4 says “if you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise. If you reject discipline, you only harm yourself; but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding.”
As a joke, when people ask me to do something, I obnoxiously tell them “you can’t tell me what to do!” and proceed to stick my tongue out like a 5-year-old child (although I’ve met many five-year-olds better behaved than I). But when their face reads unimpressed, I slink away and do exactly what they’ve asked. As I turn and walk I away, embarrassment takes over and I think “how dare you silently disapprove of my behavior because, like, it was a joke, ok?”
And there it is. The little piece of rebellion that speaks to me and justifies my wrong actions. The itty bitty piece that refuses to concede defeat. That prideful, ego-tripping piece that licks its wounds in statements heard either under the breath or in vengeful rants to a sympathetic, but enabling third-party.
The kind of rebellion I’m speaking about isn’t necessarily wild and tragic. I’m not some runaway adolescent tired of the oppression of my footloose no dancing nonsense town. I’m simply a Christian who must always remember that my goal is to be more like Jesus.
Jesus called us to be child-like in our faith, to be in awe of our creator. Not to be childish and obstinate, believing ourselves to be entitled and justified in the kind of actions that do not reflect God.
Perfection cannot be found here on earth, much less in people. However, when we open ourselves to listen and obey, God moulds and changes us in a way that others will see. When we are obedient in our actions and our words, it does not go unnoticed. It is in that discipline that we can best reach those around us. We are a living, breathing message of the goodness of God.
The song “Like Incense” has a line that always catches me off guard. It says “please still my anxious urge toward rebellion”. It sticks out to me because it relates to the nature of my human spirit.
So here’s what I’m learning, my friends. God is always guiding our steps. When you listen to Him, you’ll know if your behavior is less than worthy of the person He has called you to be. Do not be discouraged by the call of discipline, but be glad that you are now growing in wisdom and understanding. Watch your words, watch your actions. Approach everyone with love and grace. Do not be clouded by your pride and anger. Our goal is to be more like Jesus.
And if anything, just don’t stick out your tongue and tell God that he can’t tell you what to do. Just listen.
Eliza Biason
