No Dropping Out

We are human, but we don’t wage war as humans do. We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.
2nd Corinthians 10:3-5 NLT

I intensely dislike confrontation. It's uncomfortable, plus people tend to build walls to defend themselves. I also don't like being perceived as the bad guy. However, let me share a show stopper with you. Absence of confrontation is NOT the same as living in peace.

I have learned that you have to care enough about someone or something in order to confront. And you have to do it in love! There's a huge difference between confronting the person and confronting in love. If we confront someone without praying first, the likelihood of winning them over is slim to none. More often than not, we may lose the friendship. So DON'T fight it with weapons of your own making.

Ephesians 6: (the Message) tells us exactly which weapons to use to help each other so we can all win through Christ. Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out. Care enough to confront someone who has stepped off the path and lead them back on. By His mercy! By His grace... no dropping out.

Prayer:

Father, 

           thank You for Your Word and Your direction. Help us to walk the path You have cleared before us and to help those along the way who may be struggling to make it. Lord, we don't want any drop outs on our watch. In Jesus' Name we pray. AMEN