Rightly Fierce

I was young and still pretty new to a particular church when I encountered a small group leader talking inappropriately about a certain category of people. I had no idea how to respond; apparently others didn't, either. There are times when my first reaction is an over-reaction, but this did not seem to be one of those times. And even if it were, a rapidly-growing relational barrier between us became quickly apparent to me, and that also needed to be addressed. I had to confront the issue.

But how? I knew the command to initiate reconciliation and I knew the Bible's teachings about members of the body helping each other to grow together in Christlikeness, but had no idea how to actually do any of that. Thankfully, with a bit of coaching, accompanied by motivation from knowing I'd be held accountable for following through with the conversation, I talked with the one by whom I'd been offended, and it went very well. Difficult, yes, but absolutely worth it. Many years later, our relationship is strong.

That was a defining experience in my life. It was probably the first time I'd really entered a difficult conversation to seek reconciliation and lovingly correct another person. I don't think I'd ever even seen that kind of conversation. The experienced helped me to realize how incredibly vital it is that we be both willing and able to respond well at such times.

I read a book last year entitled Fierce Conversations. The word "fierce" does not imply being mean or threatening, but bold and powerful. Fierce Conversations are ones in which we show up completely and well, openly and honestly participating with others to tackle often-difficult challenges in ways that enrich and strengthen our relationships. And I am convinced that the Church needs what is in this book. We need to be genuine, challenging, and respectful as we encounter both speed bumps and mountains in life and ministry, and as we work together to accomplish our God-given mission.

So... care group leaders, Sunday School teachers, parents, grandparents, employers, employees, pastors, teachers, and anyone else who interacts regularly with imperfect people -- if you haven't read it, I'd encourage you to do so.

And if you have, I'd love to hear what you're thinking!

Sunday School Evangelism

Sunday School still brings people to Christ.  Last Sunday, two junior boys approached me.  They told me they don't want to lie or cheat or do other sinful things.  They want to do what God asks them to do.  Both had invited Jesus into their hearts that day.

This all happened when a Sunday School teacher was intentional about discipling her class, and asking life-changing questions.

The Strength You Have

Gideon was in a difficult spot, like the rest of Israel. They were oppressed by the Midianites, struggling for food and other basic necessities, fearful and uncertain about the future. Imagine, then, what Gideon may have felt when the angel of the Lord greeted him suddenly by saying "The Lord is with you, mighty warrior."

Gideon's response? "But sir..." It made no sense to him. He didn't see Mighty Warrior Gifts in himself, and wasn't even convinced he saw much of God, either.

I love the angel's response to Gideon: "Go in the strength you have... Am I not sending you?" When we encounter challenges and sense God calling us to act, we can move forward despite our apparent inadequacies. We can fulfill God's purposes for our lives using God's strength in our lives.

Are you facing a difficult conflict which needs someone to take the initiative? Go in the strength you have. A friend shares a pattern of sin and seeks help finding a way out of it? Go in the strength you have. Someone encounters Christ and wants to know more? Go in the strength you have. Dealing with the loss of a job or home and feeling hopeless about it? Go in the strength you have.

And, as God was with Gideon as he moved forward with discerning and determined faith, so he will also be with you.