Why I get in the way

It seems that one reason I get in the way is that I somehow believe the force of my logic or the sharp edge to my words will bear fruit in others' lives. This obviously reveals a false hope in my ability rather than trust in the only true hope which is in God alone. I get in the way because I have deluded myself into thinking that I have to do something. But I have no power to effect lasting change at the level of the heart of another. God has not given me that responsibility. My speaking truth in love may be a part of what he is doing in someone else’s life or not.

“But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him.” Jeremiah 17:7 Father, I do not want to continue to be a hindrance in other people’s life. I do want to offer the hope of the gospel and I know I must do so by faith in you. I pray for your help in understanding how to be a part of what you’re doing and trusting solely in your great goodness.

When I get in the way

One of the biggest obstacles to my speaking truth to others in a helpful way has been my personal response to the other person's issue. Yes, you can very quickly say, "Ah ha, you're just judgmental." And many times that's true. However, by the grace of God I am attempting to grow beyond legalistic judgmentalism in order to speak to others in a way that might help them in their life. Is it judgmental to steer a visually impaired person around a dangerous obstacle that wasn't in their path yesterday?

My fear or concern for the well being of another quickly morphs into sinful anxiety. At that point I am rendered nearly useless as an instrument of truth speaking. I will very likely distort the very truth I desire to speak by my fearful and unbelieving heart attitude. Oh Lord, help.