Play for the Audio Version
Yeah, that might be what we think. Or it might not be what we think. I don't know the answer to that. Everyone is different.
Well, first of all, my deep thoughts about such things is this. Definitely, don't share your conflict and expose what's going on between you and him or her out in the open AKA to the public. You guys know it's none of their business. It's nobody's business but your own.
Keep the love! I believe that's what God wants us to do. Lovingly rebuking is also what I think God wants us to do.
Let me use myself for an example. If my actions, verbal or non-verbal are coming across wrong. If my speech is hurtful to other people. Or, even if my facial expressions leave a question mark in people's minds thinking only bad things about me
... Well, then I want to know. Please tell me. I welcome you to lovingly rebuke me. Preferably in private.
Folks, if we are doing the wrong we should all want to be told that right? Well, I don't know maybe there are the select few that actually don't want to be told that. However, why not? That I don't get. Seriously, it's like if nobody tells anyone anything? Do you guys not want there to be a change?
Anyway, so how are we going to fix it? Well, when that reprimand or scolding happens, then what? I'm definitely thinking we shouldn't get mad at that and we shouldn't be mean about it.
Yes, that's what I'm saying now but put me in the situation? I probably won't follow what I'm saying. Sad I know.
Can you imagine if nobody says anything to anyone? They would just keep doing the wrong things until it gets really bad. What if somebody murders the person or something.
Friends, Do not give up on the lovingly rebuke maybe because we're scared. Remember, I say over and over again God is about love! So we have to try to make sure things are right between you and the other person. Do we really want peace on this Earth? Well, then it starts right now with you and me, them, us!
Matthew 18:15-17
"If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.
Proverbs 27:5
Better is open rebuke than hidden love.
1 Timothy 5:20
As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear.
Galatians 6:1
Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.
Titus 2:15
Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you.
No comments:
Post a Comment