Galatians 2:11
“But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned.”
At times we need to speak up and share difficult news with others. Fortunately, this isn’t common. Most of the time we are to be engaged, pleasant and patient with others. However on occasion we are to confront.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens another.” The way blades are sharpened is by metal rubbing against metal. This process involves friction and heat. Friendships are to make us better. In the context of life there is friction and heat. Through that we learn to resolve issues. Paul did that with Peter. He was showing favoritism towards one group and Paul called him out.
I’m sure Peter was shocked. He may have wanted to fight back, but he had learned not to respond to those instincts. Peter would be a better leader though that incident. Both men did the right thing; Paul saw a public wrong, so he confronted publicly and Peter took the correction and was more inclusive.
We’ll find ourselves in both roles. At times we may be at fault and need a friend to point it out or we may be the one who corrects. Normally we are to do so privately and with humility. Galatians 6:1 describes it as follows, “Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.”
This normally goes well. Matthew 18:15 says “…you have won your brother…” That’s a great description. We usually become more smooth in time. I’ve had a few occasions that didn’t go well. One was obstinate and the friendship became more distant. The other is still a friend, but there are some changes.
Sometimes the talk we have is due to the person crossing our personal boundaries. Maybe they belittle us. If it’s a one and done, we may be able to laugh it off. If it’s habitual, then a conversation is necessary. Most of the time people are receptive. Maybe not instantly, but in time. If not, then the friendship may need to change or be dissolved.
We do need to be understanding and patient. The initial reaction may not be good. It may be our fault in the delivery or it may be theirs. Most people come around.
Lord, thank You for friendships. Help us to be a good friend. Give us courage and wisdom in when to correct and when to keep quiet.