What’s with us and stubbornness?

Here’s a very important subject that every believer must know – You must be teachable. 100% of your success in life hinges on this. You already know that we learn every day. To grow and advance, one must learn new things. But how do you advance to new heights if you are not teachable? To be teachable means you are capable of being instructed (Dictionary.com). This discipline is what separates those that are successful from those that are not successful.

God has many things to teach you, but are you listening? Are you listening enough to make the necessary changes? Read 1 Samuel 15:22.

You probably know a couple of stories about a guy called David in the Bible. If you don’t, read these Scriptures to jump in: Psalm 51:16-17, 2 Samuel 11. From what I know about David, he is not close to being perfect; he did terrible things, yet God said he is a man after His heart. Why would God say that about a guy who lied and murdered his servant? The answer is “teachability.” David was quick to admit and repent of his wrongs. He always examined the state of his heart. Because we still battle with the flesh in this world, we will err too, but our willingness to be taught will determine if those errors will make or destroy us. Remember what God’s Word says in Proverbs 29:1, “Whoever stubbornly refuses to accept criticism will suddenly be destroyed beyond recovery.”

How do you know you are not teachable?

• You don’t take criticism, whether constructive or not.
• You always think you are right, or you always want to be right.
• You blame others for your mishaps.
• You don’t evaluate yourself constantly.
• You feel too big to be instructed by others.

If there’s any prayer a believer should make to God, it is, “Lord, give me a teachable heart.” Ask Him to break away the stubbornness in your heart and make it malleable. Here is a way you can think about stubbornness and its effects: Imagine that you are eating a piece of meat that is very tough; after battling with it for some time, I am sure you will do away with it. Being stubborn will get you nowhere. Before destruction comes stubbornness.

You need to read Psalm 51:10. It says that if you have a broken and a contrite heart, you are very dear to God’s heart. Increase your capacity to learn new things and receive corrections; it’s a key to greatness.

To become teachable, you must be willing to take criticisms and guidance; don’t refuse corrections, learn new things, and evaluate yourself regularly (have a monthly or yearly schedule). A teachable person knows they can learn from anyone or any situation. A teachable person remains humble.

Say this prayer: “Lord, please take away every stubbornness from me and give me a meek heart. Grant me the ability to learn new things daily. As You lead me, give me the grace to obey and follow. Amen.”

Join the wagon. I want to see you at the top!