This from William Gurnall for July 29:

A spectator sometimes sees more than the actor himself. And a man with an open-hearted friend who dares speak honestly has a wonderful source of encouragement for the power of holiness. Sometimes self-love binds us so we cannot see a single fault; and at other times, self-condemnation makes us appear worse than we really are. Therefore, keep your heart soft and ready to receive a reproof with real meekness.

Easier said than done. He who hates reproof is stupid (Prov. 12:1). Sometimes I don’t feel very smart. Lord, have mercy. Make me soft and ready.