We are a funny people. We place labels and definitions on one another and then use those to try and get what we want or to say that we are 'right' and you are wrong. We use words and labels to justify our behaviors and/or demands.
Working with people over the years and still seeing this in action. A request is made and for whatever reason we cannot meet it. Then these words, that become manipulative and accusatory, "and you call yourself a Christian." or "Love INC is a Christian organization?" with incredulity in the voice.
How to address this? Over and over again, am reminded of this verse; "put off falsehood and speak Truth to one another."
Yes, we are Christian. Does that mean just 'being nice' and tolerating unhealthy behaviors? Words? The facts are that as Believers, we can clearly put boundaries around people who have challenging behaviors and poor communication skills. Tolerating tantrums and verbal abuse is not only wrong, it is ultimately unhelpful to allow person to think it is OK behavior! It keeps them stuck.
"What this adds up to, then, is this; no more lies, no more pretense. Tell your neighbor the Truth. When you lie to others you end up lying to yourself." You (me) are not (always) being kind or patient, we are enabling someone to 'get away with ' bad behaviors that are not even helping themselves. Be bold, be brave, speak Truth.
"Instead we will speak the Truth in Love, growing in every way more and more like Christ."
Not everyone will be able to hear the truth, even when it has been spoken over and over by several. Some will continue to 'combat' and refute Truth; winning their way, their point is most important, proving themselves.
Timing is important. Tone is important. Relationship is important. Praying and asking for wisdom is vital. Best when all of this is happening and in place, and yet, nevertheless...
We must speak Truth. The Truth shall set us FREE.
"And then take on an entirely new way of life - A God fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as GOD accurately reproduces His character in you."
Yes, we call ourselves Christian, as we grow up in Him, speaking Truth and becoming more and more free as our Love is bold enough to confront when and where needed for the sake of the other, and for the Glory of God's purposes in each of our lives.
From Ephesians, The Message, Chapter 4.
Working with people over the years and still seeing this in action. A request is made and for whatever reason we cannot meet it. Then these words, that become manipulative and accusatory, "and you call yourself a Christian." or "Love INC is a Christian organization?" with incredulity in the voice.
How to address this? Over and over again, am reminded of this verse; "put off falsehood and speak Truth to one another."
Yes, we are Christian. Does that mean just 'being nice' and tolerating unhealthy behaviors? Words? The facts are that as Believers, we can clearly put boundaries around people who have challenging behaviors and poor communication skills. Tolerating tantrums and verbal abuse is not only wrong, it is ultimately unhelpful to allow person to think it is OK behavior! It keeps them stuck.
"What this adds up to, then, is this; no more lies, no more pretense. Tell your neighbor the Truth. When you lie to others you end up lying to yourself." You (me) are not (always) being kind or patient, we are enabling someone to 'get away with ' bad behaviors that are not even helping themselves. Be bold, be brave, speak Truth.
"Instead we will speak the Truth in Love, growing in every way more and more like Christ."
Not everyone will be able to hear the truth, even when it has been spoken over and over by several. Some will continue to 'combat' and refute Truth; winning their way, their point is most important, proving themselves.
Timing is important. Tone is important. Relationship is important. Praying and asking for wisdom is vital. Best when all of this is happening and in place, and yet, nevertheless...
We must speak Truth. The Truth shall set us FREE.
"And then take on an entirely new way of life - A God fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as GOD accurately reproduces His character in you."
Yes, we call ourselves Christian, as we grow up in Him, speaking Truth and becoming more and more free as our Love is bold enough to confront when and where needed for the sake of the other, and for the Glory of God's purposes in each of our lives.
From Ephesians, The Message, Chapter 4.