Handling Confrontation (2)

He who hates strong words is foolish.
Proverbs 12:1

Christ-like confrontation involves risking rejection. It calls for putting the other person's need for character above your own need for comfort.

"How can I do that?"

(1) Be sure!
Be sure there's a good reason to confront. Confrontation should be a rare event, not an everyday occurrence. You shouldn't relish the experience. If you do, stop and examine your motives.
Are you feeling superior?
Are you directing your anger over some other issue against this person?
Are you lifting yourself up by putting them down?

(2) Be specific!
Don't leave this to speculation. Being vague leads to an uncertain out come, no matter how tactful and gracious your words. Make sure you know the reason for the confrontation, then make that reason clear to the other person.

(3) Be sensitive!
Every situation is different. An extended season of soul-searching and prayer should precede any face-to-face encounter. Without that you're setting yourself up for problems. Furthermore, the person you're confronting will sense uncertainty and uneasiness in your words. Don't run that risk. If you haven't taken the time to pray and seek Godly counsel on the matter, don't proceed. Don't push yourself into this on your own. We've all seen that type of "Clint Eastwood go-ahead-make-my-day" approach. Without fail it leaves a bloody trail of wounded souls. Make sure your words and your tone fit the person you're dealing with. Keep your own personal agenda in check. None of this is about you!
Pay careful attention to timing.Choose your words carefully, and for sure, pray fervently. That kind of Christ-like confrontation brings the right result every time.