“Now if your brother sins, go and show him his fault in private; if he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that on the testimony of two or three witnesses every matter may be confirmed” (Matthew 18:15-16).
Remember that every confrontation of sin is about the goal of repentance. This is not about superiority, discovering what sinners do, or seeking some other goal. It is about restoring the eternal relationship we all have with our Heavenly Father. The goal here is to show love. We each need encouragement, even that which comes because we have been confronted by a sister or brother reminding us in love for the sin we have committed.
Lord, first, let me be willing to receive any confrontation for the sake of bringing about repentance. Then, let me be willing to receive anger if another does not appreciate what I am pointing out. Above all, let everything be done in love so that I seek what You desire when I dare to step into this situation. Let me not be a hypocrite who thinks themself superior because I have discovered another sinning.
Lord Jesus, these words You give me are important. They speak to how we are to love others so that they, like me, are not hindered from staying on the path You have set before us. Lead me always so that if ever I am in the position of speaking to another about sin, I do so in love with the Holy Spirit directing my words and deeds. Grow my faith, either by being confronted, or confronting others so that I become more like You. Amen.
