August 14, 2009, "Lovingly Convicted"

TRIUMPHANT VICTORIOUS REMINDERS
Inspired by the Holy Spirit
Written By: Teresa Criswell

"If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise. If you reject criticism, you only harm yourself; but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding. Fear of the Lord teaches a person to be wise; humility precedes honor. From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive. Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body."
~ Proverbs 15:31-33 & 16:23, 24 ~

This is the word I received this morning as I was on the balcony overlooking the beauty of God's beautiful 'Hand Prints'.

His beauty and love constructively brought me to conviction on a situation that had taken place yesterday.

The following are the words I received with such loving conviction:
"Constructive criticism and an encouraging word MUST go together, OR the criticism that was meant to be constructive will be received as only that...criticism."

It is so easy to point out the negative in situations and other people. Isn't it? However, when we are the ones on the receiving end of that negativity being pointed out in our own lives it can cause great discouragement.

I want to be mindful today of the words that flow out of my mouth along with being sensitive to the Holy Spirit. When I am sensitive to the Holy Spirit, I will automatically be sensitive to others.

Thank you Lord for Your sweet, reminder in a 'kiss'. I love You Lord. Thank You for Your encouragement today as You lovingly convicted me.