Speaking the Truth in Love

This is our B moment. Our moment to be still…to be fed by the Word of God…to be grateful.

Scripture reference: Ephesians 4:29 (ESV)

Today, I am thinking about how avoiding confrontation isn’t always right. Recently, we talked about using our words to speak into another’s destiny. Most often, we’ll see these words as very positive words of encouragement.

Conversely, confrontation involves using a more matter-of-fact tone which may be uncomfortable for most, but it may be the most effective way to reach a loved one who has gone astray.

This is surely the approach that the prophet Nathan used with King David.

David was someone who Nathan loved and respected, so he was certainly in David’s corner. However, when David sinned greatly, Nathan chose to call him on it.

David slept with another man’s wife, and had the man killed.  This man’s wife, Bathsheba, also became pregnant with David’s child.

David’s actions crossed so many lines and were so far gone, that Nathan knew the most effective recourse would be to confront David, so he did. David responded with humility and acknowledged his wrongdoing.  In other words, he did not hold it against Nathan, which is what most of us fear.  

I find this passage to be very instructive.  Personally, I am inclined to keep the peace, and resist confrontation.  Or, I will look for a situation to escalate a little more before I reach the point of confrontation.

Going forward, I’m going to remember this passage and how Nathan confronted David, someone he loved and respected.

The Words that teach me are, “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, that is Christ,” Ephesians 4:15 (ESV)

Tomorrow, let’s talk about diffusing wrath. Please share this reflection, because others desire to be inspired.

So today, seek God first and if you are so led, confront the one you love.