rock and a hard place…

We’ve all been faced with situations which  cause us to be caught between a rock and a hard place. When forced with tough decisions what do you do?

As we sat on my office couch my good friend divulged some information about her life. Information which put me in between a rock and a hard place.

My inner monologue went something like:

She’s knows what she’s doing is wrong. You don’t have to remind her.
But if you don’t say anything, you might condone her actions.
What if she gets upset with me? What if I come off like a pharisee?
It’s not like I’m living a perfect life.
Wow, her hair looks great!

I knew I couldn’t leave my office without saying anything. If she was really my friend, I would tell her the truth. Even if it hurt. And I knew it would.

She listened to everything I said. She didn’t cry or get upset. She just listened.

The conversation didn’t end with prayer or biblical smack-down, just a simple, I love you too much not to tell you the truth. Annnnnd, your hair looks fabulous.

Her laugh assured me of two things: 1. I’m funny and 2. the wounds of a friend are better than the kisses of an enemy (Proverb 27:6).

I gave her a hug and knew in my heart I did the right thing. But this didn’t come from sage wisdom or experience. This was straight stolen from James who said, My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins (James 5:19-20).

Friends tell you the truth. Even when it hurts. Do you have friends who are claiming to represent Jesus but their actions are contrary? Keep it real. Call them out. Love them even when it hurts.