Who enjoys being told what they are doing wrong in their life?
Not me.
At all.
But at the same time, I also am fully aware that I am not perfect.
It’s this weird human balance we all struggle with— not really wanting to be corrected while also being totally aware that we are imperfect.
One role righteous leaders have, whether it’s general church leaders, local organization presidents, or parents in their own homes, is to invite people to repent and change.
In a very individualistic culture, this can be a tough role for everyone involved.
And with the common sin of pride pervasive on all sides, it’s easy for feelings to get hurt or power to be misused.
But other times our “calls to repentance” come as the Spirit stings our conscience as we listen to someone speaking or read something that invites His presence.
Paul experienced a call to repentance.
And when the Savior very boldly invited Paul to change, how did Paul respond?
”And I said, What shall I do, Lord?” (Acts 22:10)
What a humble response.
Instead of anger, annoyance, justification or any other manifestation of pride…
He chose humility.
Can you imagine if that was our response to every lesson, every talk, every family council?
Instead of feeling anger because someone dared to tell us we were doing something wrong, annoyance because they aren’t perfect either, or even apathy because you think you couldn’t learn from anyone like that, the Lord invites us to always change!
Even when the invitation comes from people who aren’t perfect either.
Jesus wants our hearts to be willing to be molded and refined.
That one sentence that stands out to you in a boring seminary lesson? “What shall I do, Lord?”
The thought that comes to your mind during a long stake conference talk? “What shall I do, Lord?”
That phrase that won’t leave your heart while attempting to read a difficult book of scripture? “What shall I do, Lord?”
If we aren’t perfect, we have room to improve.
And the Spirit can tell us what the next step is, if we are willing to get up and act!
There’s always something we can learn and improve, and the Spirit will always lead us in the right direction if we ask.
Happy Studying!
-Cali Black
