Sometimes I’m wrong. But here’s what I’ve told myself regarding my apparent imperfections.

If I must be in error on my Christian servanthood, let it be on the side of godliness. Therefore…

• I’d rather err on the side of being too humble than be settled in the stench of self-righteousness and pride.
• I’d rather err on the side of showing too much mercy than be settled in the harshness of quick judgments.
• I’d rather err on the side of leading too slow than be settled in the fast lane with no regard for those who follow.
• I’d rather err on the side of listening too long than be settled in the course of not hearing from God.
• I’d rather err on the side of studying too long than be settled in the confidence of my intellect.

To make what could be a much longer piece a shortened version, I’ll confirm this point. I’ve decided to stay on the side of grace. I’ll give myself and others extra grace while the Holy Spirit works in us both to will and do for His good pleasure.

So then, my dearest friends, as you have always followed my advice—and that not only when I was present to give it—so now that I am far away, be keener than ever to work out the salvation that God has given you with a proper sense of awe and responsibility. For it is God who is at work within you, giving you the will and the power to achieve his purpose. (Philippians 2:12-13, J.B. Phillips).

What would you add to this error list? Do you recognize any tendencies in your heart that need correcting? What are you telling yourself about these errors?