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A Biblical Response to a Righteous Rebuke

by Corregidor Catane Jr.
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A Reflection of Psalm 141:3-5
Set a guard over my mouth, Lord;
keep watch over the door of my lips.
Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil
so that I take part in wicked deeds
along with those who are evildoers;
do not let me eat their delicacies.
Let a righteous man strike me—that is a kindness;
let him rebuke me—that is oil on my head.
My head will not refuse it…
I have always believed that accountability in church is like exercise and healthy diet. We know we need it but when the time comes to employ it, we often cower because it can be extremely uncomfortable. We can call both, as being couched potatoes; one physically, the other spiritually.
Psalm 141 brings to light a struggle that David went through; a daily struggle that every Jesus follower faces. He describes it as a heart that is drawn to what is evil resulting to doing wicked deeds. Having been called to a life of holiness, yielding to our heart’s evil desires can be the worst thing a believer can do. It takes away our saltiness and covers our spiritual light. It makes us live no different from an unbeliever.
When you think that wicked deeds only constitute abhorrent and criminal acts, then think again. 1 Chronicle 21 tells us of a time when Satan tempted David to take a census to measure the strength of his army. At first glance, it is a good, strategic, and tactical move that can be greatly beneficial for any king or general. However, behind this seemingly strategic move is a proud heart that seeks validation through a display of military prowess. Joab tried to question this decision of David but what can a mere servant’s word do to a great general whose heart is set on feeding his ego.
The wicked desires of our hearts range from an uncontrolled eating habit, laziness and “white” lies, to hatred, greed, and corruption. And just like David, we need a Joab to come and question, rebuke and correct our decisions and lifestyles. Psalm 141:5 brings to light an important lesson for David that each of us must take to heart. When the desires of our heart are bent on following evil then, “Let a righteous man strike me—that is a kindness; let him rebuke me—that is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it…”
Are you willing to go through an extremely uncomfortable situation for the sake of obedience?

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