Poking and Patting | Galatians 4:12

Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth? They make much of you, but for no good purpose. They want to shut you out, that you may make much of them. It is always good to be made much of for a good purpose, and not only when I am present with you, — Galatians 4:16-18

CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to Alan Cox from Napa, CA. Thanks for supporting the ministry, brother!

If you have a friend who is about to make a mistake, and you know a truth that could help them avoid it, do you typically intervene?

Some will and some won't. It all depends on two factors: the depth of the relationship and how much damage it might do. If you have a deep relationship with them, you will probably intervene. If their decision could do a lot of damage, you will also be more inclined to intervene.

Ultimately, the decision depends on how much you know and care about this person's future. Telling them the truth is hard when you know it might sting. It's uncomfortable and scary, but it's often the most caring thing to do. By telling the truth, you demonstrate how much you care about their future well-being, even if it means having a difficult conversation.

In the end, the decision is theirs. They may heed your advice, or they may not. Some might take offense and perceive you as an enemy because you told them the truth. This is precisely what Paul is concerned about here. But this is where faith comes in. All you can do is speak up, share the truth in love, and let God own the outcome. If you do this, you have done your part. Then get out of the way of God and let God work, even if you feel like, for a season, the relationship is in disrepair. Remember, the truth always wins because God's good purposes always prevail.

#TruthInLove #SpeakUpWithCourage #FaithfulFriendship #NavigatingRelationships #GodsGoodPurposes

ASK THIS:

Reflecting on your own experiences, can you recall a time when someone spoke a difficult truth to you out of love? How did you respond, and what did you learn from the experience?

In your current relationships, is there someone you feel compelled to share the truth with, even though it might be uncomfortable? What steps can you take to approach this conversation with love and humility?

DO THIS: Share the truth in love.

PRAY THIS: Lord, grant me the courage and wisdom to speak the truth in love, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable. Help me trust in Your good purposes and surrender the outcome to Your hands, knowing that Your truth always prevails. Amen.

PLAY THIS: The Truth.