Confrontation or ???
I’ve had feedback to my original writing from some folk who didn’t like the word “confront.” I can understand that so I have used other terms in most cases, using the word “confront” minimally. However, in my time with God this morning, I was reminded that the Bible not only uses the word “confront’ but also uses words with stronger intent, like “rebuke”.
Psalm 141:5 Let the righteous strike me; It shall be a kindness. And let him rebuke me; It shall be as excellent oil; Let my head not refuse it. My Study Bible explains this verse. “The disciplining blows and rebukes of the righteous are the true ‘kindness’, the Hebrew word meaning ‘love’ or ‘acts of authentic friendship.’”
And, we see in Proverbs 27:6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. One who accepts rebuke prospers “like gold.” Proverbs 25:12: Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold Is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear.
Call confrontation what you will, if it is received: Proverbs 15:5b indicates that “whoever learns from correction is wise.”
Results Of Tough Love
“The wounds of a friend are better than the kisses of an enemy.” If your husband responds to your “wounding,” he’ll be a wiser man, will love you more and experience the fruit of a changing/growing life. His model will impact those close to him. And you will have the blessing of a being a godly helper. Proverbs 24:25 states But to those who rebuke the wicked, it will go well with them and they will find delight, and a good blessing will be upon them.
If he refuses, you will appreciate the opportunity he has presented for you to have developed a more intimate relationshp with Abba Papa. You will have grown in patience, forebearance, forgiving, obedience to Scripture and tough love. Now, if the separation occurs, you can experience God as your “husband,” without guilt or shame.
Tomorrow is the last posting on this subject.
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