I was writing an acquaintance who has relatives going astray, and she came to me because my face kept coming to mind as she was praying about it. Interesting how God does that sometimes. I’ve been in a similar situation as she’s in, so I told her what God gave me to say to my relatives and friends. She said that the answer He gave me had more grace and gentleness than what she was thinking of saying, likening herself to a bull in a china shop. Yup, but for the grace of God in every instance, that’s me!
I am naturally extremely blunt. God has molded and shaped me to be less so.
Sometimes, direct boldness is called for, though, strangely. So, I’ve asked for discernment and wisdom on that and for God just to take over my tongue when He wants, for the ability to know the best approach isn’t naturally there for me.
I’ll share with you a childhood admonition from my Dad that often floats into my mind:
Not everything in your head
Needs to be said. 😊🙃😁
What I wrote to this young lady:
Part of the reason I was so blunt as a kid was BECAUSE of the love I felt for people. You might pray about that being a possibility, since you mentioned the “mama bear” aspect. I was the same way from a very young age. I was either storming to the defense of someone I loved or I was coming at a loved one quickly and boldly because I was worried they’d get hurt or in trouble or they’d run out of time to correct their error.
When God set before me the concept that the love is great but that He is best in control of its expression, it was a revelation to me. I still have troubles remembering that. It helps me to remember that although the love for them (that He has given me) is so very strong, I’m feeling only a portion of what He feels toward them. He loves them far more strongly, deeply, and thoroughly than I’m feeling at any point in time. I think of being a fire hose. He’s the source of the water. He’s in charge of the pressure/volume and direction. He’s the capable Fireman; I’m the hose. (chuckle)
