06/12/2022
LESSONS FROM THE BAKERY
Time for Feedback
On a fateful Friday afternoon, I sent some loaves and rolls of bread to a brother in Lagos, Nigeria. This was his second order. He was so impressed and satisfied with the first order that he ordered another set ( first impression matters they say).
Two days after delivery, I called the brother to check if he has gotten the package and if he was satisfied (We all need feedbacks to grow).
Me: "Hey brother V. How are you doing? Hope your order arrived safely and you liked the bread. We appreciate your patronage."
Brother V: "Yes ooo. Infact, my breakfast this morning is somewhat different. Am enjoying myself as I type this. However, this one is not as tasty as the first order."
I immediately jumped into explanations.
"You know, I missed the recipe for the first order and added a little more sugar than this one, we should be temperate even with the healthy sure, bla bla bla.... and on I went with explanations.
There was silence at the other end of the line for somes seconds. Then he said;
"Actually, the taste is almost the same, not much difference. However, the density has reduced compared to the first I got. I ate just 2 from my first order and i was full. With this one, i could eat 10 rolls and still ask for more. That's the difference."
No more justifiable explanations from me. This feedback hit me real hard. After some moments of reflection, it dawned on me that I added a little extra liquid to the recipe. That made the quality of the finished product a little lower than what our bread is known for. I should have quietly listened for details from this sincere not so satisfied customer. I should have asked for explanations first before jumping into explanations. I should have just listen quietly and make the necessary corrections afterwards but the defence came first before the reflections.
I thanked the customer again and noted all that he said.
This experience brought to mind what the wise man said in Proverbs.
Prov 15:10; Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die.
Paul also counsels us through Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:16
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Friend, how do you react when confronted with the truth? When the realities of our shortcomings are presented to us, what is our first reaction?
When truth from God's word stares at us hard in the face, how do we take it? Do we leave the scene of the correction, change topic or possibly close the bible?
When was the last time you sought for genuine feedback about your relationship with God? When last did you review the ingredients of your life? Are you still maintaining that density you are known for or has the spiritual life become a little lighter?
Ask for that feedback today. It could be long over due. Ask God for a feedback through his word. Remember
“For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.” Proverbs 3:12
