Often we allow fear to rob of us from engaging in rich, fulfilling relationships – ones that are “full of grace and truth” We somehow think that “being nice” will provide ease as we engage with those on our teams, in our homes and communities. We hope that “being nice” will let us “just get along”. If we are honest, we will acknowledge that relationships, based on “being nice” are very limited.
At times you and I “see things” in another person’s life that seem to remain unaddressed. The implications of these unaddressed areas are clear. We also know that we may be the appropriate person to speak what needs to be said. Yet we say nothing!
Many of us are afraid to say what really needs to be said. As a result, we choose to live with:
- Unfulfilled, diminished relationships.
- Team members not growing.
- A lack of maturity in our own lives.
- Re-work, wasting time and money.
- Misunderstanding which remains unaddressed.
- Wasted energy and emotion.
- A reduced capacity to focus on things that matter most.
- And more…
When we choose to NOT SPEAK UP:
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We tolerate unnecessary wear and tear in others and ourselves!
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We rob others and ourselves of the opportunity to grow and become more the way God has designed us to be.
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We settle for 2nd best.
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We allow fear to win!
What is keeping you from speaking the truth in love?
Perhaps…
- You are afraid of not handling yourself well under pressure.
- You are afraid of the other person not handling him/herself well under pressure.
- You are feeling not very equipped to lead the conversation well.
- Each time you have tried to discuss this topic it ends up in an unproductive place. You tell yourself, “Why bother!”
- Others…
In Matthew 11:28-30 MSG Jesus invites us to a very different place. As leaders, He asks us to choose His kingdom way, leading ourselves and others the way He leads us. He modelled a leadership frame that offered such amazing grace while speaking what needed to be said, when it was needed.
Christ is asking us to operate “full of grace and truth”. He is asking us to love those around us by operating openly and honestly. If we claim Christ then we must learn how to “speak truth in love”. There is no other option if we are committed to maturing in Him.
As I was writing this blog my son, Josh, sent me this encouraging link for a Casting Crowns song, “Here’s my heart, Lord!”. Click the photo below to hear the song.
As I listened I reflected on how quickly I can lose sight of what Jesus has provided for me and is asking of me. I was also stuck by how I am infused with capacity to do what is needed when I do keep my eyes focused on Him. It is His power in me, and through me, which provides the frame to actually love “full of grace and truth” in the very midst of a difficult conversation.
What power are you tapping into as you look to “speak truth in love”?
As you listen to this song, reflect on the challenge, opportunity and blessing of “speaking truth in love”. What is it you truly want to have happen as a result of this healthy conversation?
If you need to learn how to better lead conversations with your team and / or family then join us on March 30 & 31st – Click Below!
A Maverick Application:
As you look to growing your capacity to “speak truth in love”…
- What is God teaching you about Him?
- What is He teaching you about you?
- What action is He asking of you?
- Who does He want you to share this with?
