Confrontation

This word carries a bit of negativity with it. Confrontation is not always a bad thing. I think confrontation is healthy to relationships on many levels. I usually view confrontation as a big audacious conversation where an argument ensues. There may be occasions where that is needed and can’t be avoided. I see confrontation as a “relative” to accountability. My wife confronts me, and I confront her daily. It’s just checking in and talking about what we’re doing or not doing. It’s not a fight. It is a part of connection. When confrontation is perceived as negative is when it’s been brewing beneath the surface for a hot minute.

Jesus speaks to confrontation among believers. He gives us a framework in which to walk through confrontation of a fellow believer. Check this out….

¹⁵ “If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back. ¹⁶ But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses. ¹⁷ If the person still refuses to listen, take your case to the church. Then if he or she won’t accept the church’s decision, treat that person as a pagan or a corrupt tax collector. (Matthew 18:15-17 NLT)

Confrontation without relationship is more likely to end in a heated argument or disagreement. A relationship that is underneath the confrontation will likely lead to a workable solution or resolution.  Confrontation is hard when it’s been ignored or “swept under the rug” for a while. Hard conversations are best when seasoned heavily with grace, love, humility, kindness, mercy, and forgiveness. When all parties to a confrontation bring these character qualities then growth happens. Confrontation can lead to lasting change rather than temporary adjustment.

When I read the Word of God, I’m often confronted by the Truth in its pages. Without the confrontation of God’s Word, I would be more of a mess than I already am. God confronts me with a reminder of how He loves. His love is deep and profound. I’m more likely to listen to His confrontation because I know He loves. The same is true with brother-to-brother confrontation – If I know I’m loved, I’m more likely to listen and adjust.

Pressing On!

Dwayne