In Esther 7, Queen Esther finally has to "step up to the plate" and state that Haman was the man behind the evil plot against the Jews. When we read this book, we know the ending, so we may fail to remember her precarious position. Just because the king has looked in favor on her doesn't mean he will continue to do so. He could just as easily turn on her once she accuses a man who is in his inner circle. But, in obedience to a higher calling, she states the truth.
We may not be often called upon to state the direct truth about a situation in front of the person that it could affect (except, I suppose, if we are called to the witness stand in a court of law.) Even so, we may have to face the truth of a situation and for the good of all involved, deal with it appropriately.
For example. Let's say that you hang around with several friends and one routinely likes to stray into gossip about other people. You know it is bringing the relationships down, but no one is comfortable lovingly confronting this friend. One of you--maybe you--will have to be brave enough to "speak the truth in love" if his/her behavior causes division, distrust, or negativity. When you have to, remember the example of Esther:
- Prayer. She spent time in prayer and preparing--"pray-paring" for this task.
- Timing. She did not dump this info on the king right away. She waiting for him to be appropriately attentive.
- Directness. Although she was subtle during the initial conversations, when it came time to speak the truth, she was direct about what was happening, and to the point when answering his question about who was the perpetrator.
- Stability. Even when the king stormed out and Haman begged for mercy, there is no indication that Esther softened in fear. She held her ground, not giving in to Haman's pleas. She kept the higher purpose in mind.
What happens next is not pleasant. Haman is hanged on his own gallows. I trust your situations will never have to come to that! But Esther's example is that the relationship was severed, because it was not a good relationship. Period. In rare cases, you may have to accept a severed relationship if it is better to not associate with those who tear down your walk with God. Hopefullly, though, in most cases, your kind but direct approach when you sincerely feel God is calling you to it, will lead to a deeper, and healthier bond.
Note and warning: this post is not to encourage you to criticize and judge all your friends for every mistake they make, or to elevate yourself above them. I am suggesting instead that if a pattern of poor behavior is evident, and has a negative affect on you or others, you may in great humility have to handle the situation with a direct, in person, conversation. This should always be done in love and with a listening ear and humble heart.
Print This
|
Posts
