Embracing the Rub: The Value of Discomfort in Growth
Sometimes, when I listen to people preach, coach, or speak life into me, it really irritates me.
Now, how is that for an opening statement?!? Please keep reading and hear me out…
They say things that rub me the wrong way, and I find myself thinking, "I don't really like you for saying that."
Have you ever felt that way? My guess is you probably have.
What I’ve learned is to dig deeper into why I feel this way.
Why does it get under my skin?
The reality is, it’s not about what they are saying—instead, it’s about me.
Sometimes, the discomfort I feel comes from the Holy Spirit speaking through that person, allowing their words to rub against my rough edges.
As scripture says, "Iron sharpens iron" (Proverbs 27:17).
If we only surround ourselves with people who always say pleasant things and never challenge us, how will we ever grow?
I hope and pray that you don't view these moments as personal attacks from those speaking into your life.
Instead, see them as opportunities to grow and learn.
On the other hand, there have been times when I hear something from someone and think, "I don't agree with that." And that’s okay. That’s not exactly the same thing as feeling convicted.
In fact, it’s not a great idea to just accept everything you hear at face value.
Reflect on it, pray about it, and see if it aligns with scripture.
If it doesn’t, let it go.
And, if the comments feel offensive because your conscience is pricked, that should prompt some reflection. Reflection is vital to maturing spiritually and in all areas of life. I recently learned that people who challenge us are called "heavenly sandpaper" because they work to refine us.
Personally, I pray there’s a bit of heavenly sandpaper in all my coaching sessions.
I hope that by challenging our Women of Faith Group Coaching community, I'm helping to smooth out some of their rough edges, just as I smooth out my own.
Sometimes, the very things I say to others are often lessons I need to hear myself.
So, the next time someone’s words rub you the wrong way, take a moment to consider what’s going on. Maybe the rubbing is refining, and it might be just what you need to become a better version of yourself.
