I realize that rebuke tends to be a more biblical term, but it can
reach much further than a simple reference in the Bible. I learned an
interesting lesson about rebuking, it's not as easy as it seems. Webster's
Dictionary defines rebuke as "to speak
in an angry and critical way to (someone)" I can see how and why the
dictionary defined it as such, but I feel like the dictionary didn't quite get
this word properly defined. I would almost say this this definition is meant
for 'chastising' than 'rebuking'. I would define rebuking as 'a method of
correcting one's decisions in a critical manner.' Anger is involved but, not in
the way the definition uses it.
I can recall on many occasions when I was
rebuke quite often from people that are close to me. The big problem with
Asperger's is even though a friend or family member might warn me about
something that I did wrong; there are times when I'll do it again. Thus, I
would be rebuked because I didn't follow the instructions...because I forgot
what had happen the first time. This is not an excuse, I really can't always
remember certain things, even if I've done it several times before; I know it
frustrated my mom, but I don't blame her. I do feel disappointment and
irritation, but I understood and moved forward. I never got an apology because
they were in the right and I was clearly in the wrong.
I recently came across a verse in the
Bible that talks about rebuking and this is what it said: Proverbs 9:8 "Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate
you; rebuke the wise and they will love you." NIV I honestly can
tell you that I didn't "love" them at first, but at least I
understood and tried to be more aware of short-giving’s. I have actually been
on the other side of that coin...especially if you're a parent. I will always
love my daughters, but there have been times when I have had to rebuke them
'Biblically' for things they did wrong on more than one occasion. My girls
didn't like me very much, but they knew I still loved them and they tried not
to do it again. Of course, my youngest daughters who both have Asperger's like
me; it would take them a little longer to understand like I did when I was
younger.
I understand the importance of rebuking,
but it's never something I like because I'm not a big fan of conflict. I will
stand up when I need to and do what the Lord commands (after all, Jesus rebuked
his own disciples with no apology!), but I try to avoid it as much as possible. Rebuking is
taking a chance and hoping for a positive change...they will either yell at you
or they will humbly accept it and move forward. I've always tried to move ahead
because there is no point in wallowing in the past. Besides, with my Asperger's
I have this habit of forgetting anyway...sometimes it's a curse and other times
it's a blessing...I just haven't figured that part out yet.
Song of Inspiration [Check it out on
iTunes or Android!]:
Song: "Losing"
Artist: Tenth Avenue North
Album: The Struggle
Here's the official video to the selected song:
Good words to remember...
Here's the official video to the selected song:
Good words to remember...
