For some time, I had been aware of and irritated by my husband’s responses to many things I said. He often corrected me over the most insignificant matters or implied that what I said was inaccurate. He may have been simply “adding” information, but I was “hearing” correction. I was keenly aware of these interjections and regularly called him out for being so contrary.
I also pointed out his annoying habit to others. Once, after spending a lovely afternoon with two of my dear friends, I did so again on the ride home. The words had no sooner left my lips when I heard the sweet, loving voice of the Holy Spirit whisper softly to my heart, “You did the same thing today at lunch with your friends. You, too, my child, can be quite contrary.”
God opened my eyes and spoke truth to my soul—truth that I was completely blind to until God lavished His grace upon me. Truth that led me to repent and humbly seek God’s forgiveness. Now, I can be aware and hold my tongue. God’s truth led me to repent and seek forgiveness from my friends for my rudeness and from my husband for speaking negatively about him to others.
God’s truth allowed me to remove a plank from my eye so I could see clearly.
Ask God to help you recognize the still, small voice of your Father who speaks His words to your heart. Then seek the grace to apply it.
Sandy Hope Stewart began her writing career at the age of seventy when her salvation testimony was shared in the March 2022 edition of Decision Magazine. Her first book, a memoir of her life as a militry spouse was published in September, 2023 by Lucid Book Publishers and her story, “He Keeps Leaving Me” was featured in the May 2024 issue of Today’s Christian Living Magazine. She and her retired military husband reside in Virginia Beach, Virginia. They enjoy cruising when not visiting their three children’s families nearby, or in the Atlanta area or in Canada. Her nine (plus one by marriage) grandchildren are her heart.