Recently, I came across an insightful article by Annie B. Garman about confronting others and some steps to take before issuing a reproof.
It’s a subject I spent a full chapter talking about in my new book Tongue Pierced: How the Words You Speak Transform the Life You Live.
As Annie points out in her article for the North American Mission Board, we are commanded to give correction as well as to receive it. She offers the following Scriptural steps when faced with rebuking others:
1. Always check yourself first.
“Judge not, that you be not judged … Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.” (Matt. 7:1, 3-5)
2. Humble yourself.
“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.” (Galatians 6:1)
3. Ask yourself questions.
Are my concerns biblical or just a matter of opinion? Am I saying this out of love and care for the person? Am I saying this to get revenge for a previous wrong? Is this meant to build them up or tear them down?
Click here to read the full article.
Your partner in ministry,
Nelson
P.S. – To get your copy of Tongue Pierced: How the Words You Speak Transform the Life You Live, click here.
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