The Feedback Reflex

Teach me, and I will be silent; make me understand how I have gone astray. How forceful are upright words!—Job 6:24-25

Feedback is tricky—both to give and even more to receive. Sometimes to receive it feels shameful or embarrassing, especially when we know that we've made a mistake. As we mature in our faith, we come to realize that feedback makes us better men, husbands, fathers, and leaders. However, when we're young, we resist feedback as we fail to see all the positive aspects and the hugely positive outcomes.

To become better men, we must reject the resistance reflex. But this is only developed over time. Job demonstrates tremendous maturity in his words above. Slain with afflictions, he still proclaims, "teach me." This was one of his great secrets as a man of God. In the end, he knew, even when he questioned himself, that there was One greater than he—a Teacher who possesses all truth. He understood he was the student, the one to receive feedback from The Teacher of all—God.

DO THIS: Be silent, listen, and invite feedback if you want to be a better man.

PRAY THIS: God, teach me today. I am ready to receive your feedback. Help me to respond quickly.