Our Model

Of course there are times when we should speak up and confront people, but its vital that we are sensitive to the Spirit of God in each situation. Sometimes I am fired up and want to tell someone that he or she will not mistreat me or take advantage of me any longer. But no matter how much I want to confront that individual, The Holy Spirit persistently tells me to leave it alone.

Other times I do not want to speak with a person about an issue, but God lets me know i must.
When this is the case i choose my words carefully and so that I speak out of wisdom rather than emotion. I am cautiously aware of the impact of voice tones and body language. I have learned that even when wrong words ignite a flame, right words can put it out.

"There are those who speak rashly, like the piercing of a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing" (Prov. 12:18).

"A fool's wrath is quickly and openly known, but the prudent man ignores an insult" 

(Prov. 12:16)

~ Our Model ~

Follow Jesus's example. He was accused of wrongdoing regularly, yet never once did He attempt to defend Himself. He let people think He was wrong, and it did not disturb him at all.

He could do so because He knew who He was.
He did not have a problem with His self-image.
He was not trying to prove anything.
Because he trusted His father to vindicate Him and we can do the same.

"Lord i surrender to You the need to defend self, explain self, empower self, and to always be right. I acknowledge that You alone, you are the only one that is right. And even if i feel right about some situations, it never justifies strife. I submit my life to you completely, and i choose to let you alone be my defender."


~ Conflict free living - Joyce Meyer ~