We know when something doesn’t feel right. Maybe your best friend fibbed to their spouse about being out with you when you were really at home in your PJs. Maybe a loved one is choosing a path that feels far from what God has planned for their life. How do you address these tough situations without putting your relationships at risk?
You may not be able to. That’s a tough truth to hear, but you can’t control a person’s reaction to your correction. You can, however, control how you approach conversations about accountability and ask for God’s guidance.
So, what should be your first step? Turn to God’s word. Is what they’re doing truly wrong or something you just don’t like? If it is against God’s commandments, keep scripture at the ready. If you need advice or still have reservations about talking with your friend, you may consult someone you trust, but be respectful of your friend’s privacy and refrain from gossiping.
When you finally decide to approach your friend, do it one-on-one. Don’t make accusations. Instead, ask for their side of the story and why they’ve made the choices they have. What they’re going through may reveal the solution to the problem. If they’re reluctant to acknowledge their sins or come back to you with vitriol, turn to God in prayer and to His word for guidance on how to best serve your friend moving forward.
In all of this, be in constant prayer that God softens your heart and the heart of the person you love. Conflict is never easy, and keeping one another accountable can be uncomfortable. But as this verse reminds us, we are simply protecting each other from the deceitfulness of sin. What greater act of love is there?
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