Speaking the truth in love

I had an encounter this week from which I emerged with some conflicting feelings--I felt hurt,       I was humbled, I was helped.  


I was hurt because I did not hear what I wanted to hear.  My "confronter" spoke kindly, but forcefully and accurately.  He was very careful not to be accusative but pointed out some mutual concerns in our relationship that were obviously creating some discomfort for him.  I needed to hear him, even though it was painful.


I was humbled because in my heart I had to acknowledge he was right,  There were some things about what I was saying and doing that reflected poorly upon our relationship  For it to continue in a healthy way, changes needed to be made and most of them rightfully had to be my responsibility.


I was helped because I listened and chose to learn--to accept and own my part if we were to be able to move forward.  he spoke the truth in love--a scriptural mandate-=-and I was able to receive it and, now, to process it, and, with God's help, act on it.


Speaking the truth in love, when I am the speaker, affords me an opportunity to be heard.  Receiving the truth spoken in love if I am the listener accelerates my willingness to act responsibly towards it.