The other day someone was telling me about a time in her life, several years ago, that she had become a lesser version of herself. A good friend of hers called her out for her grumpiness, meanness, and just all-around bad behavior as a friend. As she told me about it, it was evident that she was hugely grateful to that friend for having the tough conversation in order to save their friendship...and more, help her become a greater version of herself. As I listened to the story, I wondered if I would have had the courage to confront a friend. I'd like to think I would, but I also know my tendency to dance around the issue, say what I think people want to hear...and avoid confrontation at all cost.
The way that Achan and his sin were dealt with seems extreme and a little harsh, but I'm afraid that too many Christians have slipped over to the other extreme: apathy. Real love is not afraid to address sin in the life of a friend because real love wants the absolute best for a friend. Real love wants to make the other person better, encourage him, spur him on, and sharpen him. And sharpening is a painful process...often for both parties involved. I have been challenged by today's passage to start showing REAL LOVE to the people around me. This will bring great freedom to relationships! If I'm consistently showing REAL LOVE to them, my friend won't have to wonder about my sincerity when I initiate a tough conversation...and I won't have to wonder when that tough conversation is initiated by a friend.
No comments:
Post a Comment
To help us in moderating our comments, we are asking all blog followers to e-mail michael@bearcreek.cc before their first comment. Please include in your e-mail your Blog user name. We are sorry for any inconvenience.