Correction is a necessary part of life. Every one of us, at some point, has needed to be corrected, redirected, or lovingly brought back into alignment. The problem is not correction itself; the problem is how we correct. Too often, correction is delivered with sharp edges instead of gentle hands, with pride instead of humility, and sometimes, with meanness disguised as “truth.”
Scripture reminds us in Proverbs 15:1, ESV: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Correction that is harsh may feel powerful in the moment, but it often leaves wounds that last far longer than the issue being addressed. God never intended correction to crush someone’s spirit; it is meant to restore, guide, and heal. Hallelujah! The Apostle Paul makes this clear in Galatians 6:1, ESV: “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness…” Notice the word “restore.” Correction is not about proving superiority or asserting dominance; it is about helping someone stand again. If correction does not carry gentleness, it has already missed its purpose.
Somehow, we live in a world where some people reach a certain “plateau” in life—whether that plateau is age, education, position, title, or success—and suddenly believe they have earned the right to speak to others any kind of way. Respect is demanded, but kindness is forgotten. Authority is exercised, but compassion is abandoned. Consequently, somewhere along the way, correction then turns into control.
Poet, author, and college professor Dr. Maya Angelou affirmed, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” That truth speaks volumes in the context of correction. You may be absolutely right in what you say, but if you make someone feel small, humiliated, or disrespected, your message will be lost, and your harsh delivery will be remembered. Absolutely!
God’s Word challenges us in Colossians 4:6, ESV: “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” Gracious speech does not avoid correction, but it applies wisdom, timing, and love. Salt preserves, but too much salt ruins the meal! Correction is not an excuse for cruelty. Truth does not need a sharp tongue to stand. If our correction does not reflect the heart of Christ, then it is not godly correction at all.
Therefore, the question becomes: when we correct others, are we trying to help them grow, or are we simply trying to feel bigger, or hurt their feelings? What we must do is choose correction that heals, not harms; that builds bridges, not walls; and that leaves people better, not bitter. Always abound in the faith, and never leave home without Him!
