Reflections on Proverbs 27:5-6

 Memory Verse: “Better is open rebuke Than love that is concealed. Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But deceitful are the kisses of an enemy.” —Proverbs 27:5-6

In today's memory verse, we compare two things, considering one better than the other. “Open rebuke” is stated as better than “love that is concealed.” Open rebuke involves opening up to a friend, brother, sister, parent, spouse, or children about their wrongdoings. It's about facing them, confronting them, and challenging them with the truth of their actions, revealing the consequences, and alerting them to the need for change.

For example, if you see a fellow Christian preaching a message that brings hopeless faith, such as telling a sick person that accepting Jesus Christ will guarantee a life free from sickness, you should call them aside and gently correct them with the truth of the Gospel. This is open rebuke, aimed at stopping them from proclaiming heresies and guiding them towards the truth.

Another example of open rebuke is when you see someone engaging in sinful behavior, such as visiting a prostitute. As a concerned brother or sister, you should confront them about their actions, tell them that their behavior is wrong, and help them find a way out of it. In open rebuke, you say, “No, that's not right. Do it this way.”

On the other hand, “love that is concealed” can be destructive. It sees a person doing evil and remains silent, never saying “NO” or speaking out against the wrongdoing. This type of love watches as the naive fall into trouble and still approves it. Concealed love never saves; instead, it enables harm to continue.

For instance, if you see a spouse quarreling with neighbors, and you claim to “love” them by staying silent, you're actually enabling their harmful behavior. Such love kills, watching as the person gets into trouble without intervening.

In contrast, the wounds of a friend are faithful, meaning that rebukes from a friend can be a sign of genuine love and concern. On the other hand, the kisses of an enemy can be deceitful, masking ulterior motives.

As we navigate relationships, let's prioritize open rebuke and genuine love. Let's be willing to speak truth, even when it's hard, and to receive correction with humility. May we value faithful wounds over deceitful flattery and surround ourselves with people who genuinely care about our well-being.

May God bless you as you start this new week. May His wisdom guide your relationships, and may you be surrounded by genuine love and care in Jesus' name. Amen.

In Christ, 

> Silas Oriokot